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In class and online: using discussion boards in teaching
1Department of Psychology, Rider University, Lawrenceville, NJ 08648, USA. suler@mindspring.com
Summary
Online discussion boards offer instructors a unique teaching space. This article explores student behavior, participation factors, and strategies for effective online classroom facilitation and integration.
Area of Science:
- Educational Technology
- Online Learning Environments
- Cyberpsychology
Background:
- Discussion boards extend traditional classrooms into digital spaces.
- Understanding student behavior in online forums is crucial for effective teaching.
Purpose of the Study:
- To offer practical suggestions for instructors managing online discussion boards.
- To explore factors influencing student participation and effective discussion facilitation.
- To examine critical concepts for successful online group functioning.
Main Methods:
- Observational analysis of student behavior in online forums.
- Review of strategies for structuring online environments.
- Exploration of factors impacting student engagement and participation.
Main Results:
- Establishing clear rules and structure enhances online environments.
- Specific factors significantly influence student participation levels.
- Facilitation strategies can effectively guide online discussions.
Conclusions:
- Online discussion boards require deliberate structure and facilitation for optimal student engagement.
- Understanding psychological factors like disinhibition is key to managing online interactions.
- Integrating online and in-person settings maximizes the benefits of digital learning tools.