E-learning: Analysis of online discussion forums in promoting knowledge construction through collaborative learning

Extensive discussions and debates about the advantages of using technology to create a shared space among learning participants have been presented in studies in the field of e-learning. One of the approaches in using or adopting technology for learning is through the use of online discussion forums, which as reported has beneficial impact on the teaching and learning process. Online discussion forum is also a form of learning through networking which provide opportunities for students to seek, obtain, and share information. Therefore, students’ participation and interaction in the forum can provide some insight into how they learn about a course in a virtual environment. In addition, it is also essential to consider how online discussion forums may promote knowledge constructions in students.This study examines preliminary data of an online discussion forum in a course at Masters level (MA) in order to investigate if there is evidence of shared construction of knowledge among students through collaborative learning behaviours. The findings indicate that the students actively processed and reviewed the postings in the online discussion forums. They also relate their postings to what they have learned in the lectures, besides providing links to relevant websites for further reading. Therefore, there is evidence that the students worked collaboratively in order to respond to the postings based on the topics presented during the lecture and tutorial. Finally, analysis of the students’ discourses indicate various phases of knowledge construction (based on the IAM model), which is a reflection of their cognitive thinking process. Key-Words: e-learning, content analysis, online forum discussion, knowledge construction, collaborative learning, asynchronous communication