Types of Interaction in Online Discussion Forums: A Case Study

UNCG Author/Contributor (non-UNCG co-authors, if there are any, appear on document)
Hamid Nadir, Assistant Professor (Creator)
Institution
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG )
Web Site: http://library.uncg.edu/

Abstract: The purpose of this paper is to identify the types of students’ interaction, as well as their discussion patterns in an online course. The study took place in a large Midwestern University and 17 graduate students participated in the study. The primary data was obtained from students’ discussion forum postings. The researchers used both qualitative and quantitative approaches to describe and analyze the types of discussion and interaction. The researchers developed a coding scheme based on theories and models. The findings of the study reveal that computer mediated communication (CMC) has a positive potential to increase interaction among students. Furthermore, the findings confirm the effectiveness of asynchronous online environment in supporting online learning community. Participants were engaged in social interaction to build their knowledge. This study recommends two-way interaction for achieving sustainable discussion and promoting higher level of interaction.

Additional Information

Publication
Journal of Educational Issues, 3(1), 155- 169. https://doi.org/10.5296/jei.v3i1.10975
Language: English
Date: 2017
Keywords
Online discussion, Online learning, Computer Mediated Communication

Email this document to