Our research analysing at video-tapes of pairs and small groups of children working around computers has given us some clues as to what software features help to establish and sustain effective talk:

	Challenges and problems which have meaning for the children, and which provide a range of alternative choices that are worth discussing. Such challenges should engage the children with the content of the software rather than its interface.
	A clear purpose or task which is made evident to the group and which is kept in focus throughout.
	On-screen talk prompts which ask the group to talk together, remind them to reach agreement and ask for opinions and reasons.
	Resources for discussion, including information on which decisions can be based, and opportunities to review decisions in the light of new information.
	No features which encourage individuals to take turns, beat the clock or establish competitive ways of working.
	Multi-choice answers to minimise typing (unless the children have been taught keyboarding skills which is really a very good idea!)

We have used these guidelines to design software. We have also used them as a basis for selecting software that can be used to support collaborative learning.