ERIC Number: EJ1117829
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2016
Pages: 17
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0158-7919
EISSN: N/A
Understanding the Dynamics of MOOC Discussion Forums with Simulation Investigation for Empirical Network Analysis (SIENA)
Zhang, Jingjing; Skryabin, Maxim; Song, Xiongwei
Distance Education, v37 n3 p270-286 2016
This study attempts to make inferences about the mechanisms that drive network change over time. It adopts simulation investigation for empirical network analysis to examine the patterns and evolution of relationships formed in the context of a massive open online course (MOOC) discussion forum. Four network effects--"homophily," "reciprocity," "transitivity," and "preferential" attachment--were tested to explain the dynamic mechanisms of interaction in the MOOC forum. Understanding the network dynamics of relationships will allow us to explore how to develop a robust peer-supported learning environment and in turn improve the online learning experience in MOOCs. [
Descriptors: Online Courses, Investigations, Network Analysis, Computer Simulation, Inferences, Interaction, Group Dynamics, Learning Experience, Educational Environment, Observational Learning, Modeling (Psychology), Asynchronous Communication, Psychology, Undergraduate Students, Foreign Countries, Statistical Analysis
Routledge. Available from: Taylor & Francis, Ltd. 325 Chestnut Street Suite 800, Philadelphia, PA 19106. Tel: 800-354-1420; Fax: 215-625-2940; Web site: http://www.tandf.co.uk/journals
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: China
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A