Using the web to encourage student-generated questions in large-format introductory biology classes

Area of Science:

• Biology education
• Educational technology

Background:

• Large introductory science courses often suffer from low student-initiated questioning.
• Traditional classroom formats may not effectively encourage student engagement with course material.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the effectiveness of a Web-based forum for facilitating student-generated questions in a large introductory biology course.
• To assess student participation rates and perceived learning gains from using the forum.

Main Methods:

• Implemented a Web-based question-asking forum in a second-semester introductory biology course over three semesters.
• Tracked student participation in posting questions and reading responses.
• Surveyed students on their engagement with the forum and its impact on their learning.

Main Results:

• Approximately 80% of students posted at least one question per semester.
• Over 95% of students who posted questions read instructor responses.
• About 75% of students read questions posted by peers, and 60% reported enhanced biology learning.

Conclusions:

• Web-based forums are effective tools for promoting student inquiry in large introductory biology classes.
• This technology can foster a more interactive learning environment and improve students' self-reported understanding of course content.