A new study from the Journal of Online Interactive learning shows that online class discussions can be one of the most effective ways of involving students with the course material. However, instructors rarely make the best use of this medium:
"One of the most popular and pedagogically effective forms of virtual classroom interaction is via threaded discussions…Results indicated considerable variability in both frequency and time investment of threaded discussion participation. While research indicates the threaded discussions are a very effective means of promoting active involvement with course materials, it appears as though there is little consistency among experienced online instructors as to the instructional investment required to take advantage of the educational gains available through this type of electronically-mediated instruction."
If you've ever frequented a popular, subject-specific message board, you'll know that threaded forum discussions can be a great way to learn from other people. Unlike chat rooms, message boards give users the chance to think out their responses and contribute to the best of their ability. Users ask relevant questions and freely share their knowledge. The discussion threads are usually saved and are searchable by keyphrase.
Sadly, message boards for online classes often lose steam before they even get going. I recently enrolled in an online class given by a popular media website. The class had a dedicated message board. But, unfortunately, it was abandoned after only a few posts by newcomers. The instructor didn't interact with the class through the message board and class members soon gave up on it too. As a student, I was disappointed - we missed a valuable opportunity to share knowledge and network with each other.
For more information about the study see: Frequency and Time Investment of Instructors' Participation in Threaded Discussions in the Online Classroom.
Top Online Colleges
 |
Kaplan University - Associate's, Bachelor's, & Master's Degrees. Kaplan University is a dynamic institution that offers accredited, online degrees to students seeking to jump start a new career. Kaplan University makes it easy for students to get the college degree that they want.
 |
 |
Ashford University - Associate's, Bachelor's, & Master's Degrees. Ashford University has a rich tradition of online educational excellence. This excellence is shown in the quality of each class that every student receives.
|
 |
University of Phoenix - Associate's, Bachelor's, Master's, & Doctoral Degrees. University of Phoenix shows each student how easy and convenient it is to earn your college degree through their distance learning program. Students can choose to learn at home or from a campus location near you.
|
 |
Liberty University - Associate's, Bachelor's, & Master's Degrees. At Liberty University, students educational goals and needs are met by an outstanding faculty and support staff. Any adult learner looking to go back to school will be pleased with the course offerings available at Liberty University.
|
 |
American InterContinental University Online - Associate's, Bachelor's, & Master's Degrees. At American InterContinental University, every individual has an opporunity to receive an excellent college degree and the ability to maximize their human potential. American InterContinental University allows you to pick a time and place that fits your schedule.
|
 |
DeVry University - Associate's, Bachelor's, & Master's Degrees. Students who attend DeVry University are welcomed with an outstanding faculty who put each students needs and dreams first. DeVry University is an accredited university that offers affordable degrees.
|
 |
Everest University - Associate's, Bachelor's, & Master's Degrees. Everest University is committed to the on-going commitment of providing each student with a high-quality, low-cost online education. Everest University has a well rounded faculty with real world experience.
|
 |
Westwood College - Associate's & Bachelor's Degrees. Westwood College uses a student-centric approach to its educational curriculum and each student benefits from this ideal. Westwood College is an accredited university with degrees in high-growth industries.
|
Did you enjoy this article?
