ERIC Number: EJ1006987
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2013-Jan
Pages: 8
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0360-1315
EISSN: N/A
Exploring Asynchronous and Synchronous Tool Use in Online Courses
Oztok, Murat; Zingaro, Daniel; Brett, Clare; Hewitt, Jim
Computers & Education, v60 n1 p87-94 Jan 2013
While the independent contributions of synchronous and asynchronous interaction in online learning are clear, comparatively less is known about the pedagogical consequences of using both modes in the same environment. In this study, we examine relationships between students' use of asynchronous discussion forums and synchronous private messages (PM). We find that asynchronous notes contain more academic language and less social language, are more difficult to read, and are longer compared to PM. In addition, we find that the most active forum-posters are also the most active PM users, suggesting that PMing is not reducing their contribution to public discourse. Finally, we find that those who frequently PM are less likely to rapidly scan forum notes, and that they spend more time online than those who make less use of PM. We suggest that PM supports asynchronous discussions in the formation of a community of inquiry. (Contains 3 tables.)
Descriptors: Asynchronous Communication, Synchronous Communication, Online Courses, Discussion, Academic Discourse, Electronic Learning, Computer Mediated Communication, Educational Technology, Web Based Instruction, Instructional Effectiveness, Comparative Analysis
Elsevier. 3251 Riverport Lane, Maryland Heights, MO 63043. Tel: 800-325-4177; Tel: 314-447-8000; Fax: 314-447-8033; e-mail: JournalCustomerService-usa@elsevier.com; Web site: http://www.elsevier.com
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A