What are Document Collaboration Tools?

Document collaboration tools allow for multiple people to access and work on one electronic file or document together.

What is the purpose of Document Collaboration Tools?

Document collaboration programs facilitate two or more people to share documents with fewer limitations (for example, emailing documents is often limited to smaller file sizes). Additionally, programs also allow multiple people to work on or contribute to a document either asynchronously or synchronously. For example, co-authors can write a paper within one single document without needing to create multiple versions of the file. When programs allow for synchronous collaboration, multiple users can access and work on the document at the same time and any edits or contributions are displayed in real time. Users can see, edit, and comment on each other's work as it is added.

How to use Document Collaboration Tools

Document collaboration programs can be used in teaching contexts to:

  • Share files with students
  • Provide feedback on students work through comments
  • Support collaborative group assignments
  • Share resources between colleagues