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Facilitating critical discourse through "meaningful disagreement" online
Jayne Dalley-Hewer1, Deanne Lynn Clouder, Ann Jackson
1Department of Health Professions, Coventry University, Coventry, UK. j.dalley-hewer@coventry.ac.uk
Facilitating meaningful disagreement in online student discussions is key for deeper learning. Educators can foster critical discourse by carefully designing learning activities and considering student backgrounds.
Area of Science:
- Online Education
- Interprofessional Learning
- Educational Technology
Background:
- Previous research indicates a trend towards polite agreement in interprofessional online discussions.
- Limited evidence of disagreement suggests a potential barrier to deeper learning.
- Agreement may function as online interprofessional 'netiquette', hindering critical engagement.
Purpose of the Study:
- To identify strategies for facilitating meaningful disagreement among students in online interprofessional forums.
- To critique pedagogical approaches that may inadvertently promote agreement and limit learning.
- To explore the relationship between interprofessional discourse and student engagement.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of pedagogical approaches in interprofessional online discussion forums.
- Critique of learning outcomes, trigger materials, and activities.
- Consideration of student stage of study and life experience.
Main Results:
- Creating an online context for critical discourse presents significant challenges.
- Careful construction of learning outcomes, resources, and activities can provoke disagreement.
- Attention to students' academic progression and life experiences is crucial for fostering critical engagement.
Conclusions:
- Meaningful disagreement is achievable in online interprofessional settings.
- Pedagogical design is a critical factor in promoting deeper learning through critical discourse.
- Strategies should be tailored to encourage constructive conflict and enhance interprofessional education.
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