Using E-Mail to Collaborate with Professionals and Parents

Summary A multidimensional framework of collaboration is provided. We review research on e-mail, and discuss implications for practice and research with respect to collaboration in the schools. We devote particular attention to the implications of e-mail in consulting with classroom teachers, the functioning of school-based teams, and collaborating with parents. Barriers to collaboration are discussed, as well as how e-mail might improve collaboration. Ethical issues in using e-mail are considered, and guidelines for protecting confidentiality are presented. Finally, we discuss possible future uses of the Internet and e-mail with respect to special services in the schools. Examples are provided from our research on e-mail consultation and the Global School Psychology Network.