Student engagement in distance learning environments: A comparison of threaded discussion forums and text-focused Wikis

Authors

  • Fei Gao Michigan State University
  • David Wong Michigan State University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.5210/fm.v13i1.2018

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to improve the quality of students' online discussion of assigned readings in an online course. To improve the focus, depth, and connectedness of online discussion, the first author designed a text-focused Wiki that simultaneously displayed the assigned reading and students' comments side by side in adjacent columns. In the text-focused Wiki, students were able to read the assigned text in the left column and type their comments or questions in the right column adjacent to the sentence or passage that sparked their interest. In post-participation surveys, data were gathered about students' experiences in the text-focused Wiki and prior experiences in threaded discussion forums. Students reported more focus, depth, flow, idea generation, and enjoyment in the text-focused Wiki.

Author Biographies

Fei Gao, Michigan State University

Fei Gao is a PhD candidate in the educational psychology and educational technology program in Michigan State University. Her current interest is online teaching and learning.

David Wong, Michigan State University

David Wong is an associate professor of educational psychology and educational technology in Michigan State University. His work spans a number of areas including educational psychology and philosophy, educational technology, and the design of online learning environments.

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Published

2008-01-13

How to Cite

Gao, F., & Wong, D. (2008). Student engagement in distance learning environments: A comparison of threaded discussion forums and text-focused Wikis. First Monday, 13(1). https://doi.org/10.5210/fm.v13i1.2018