Investigating Learning and Literacy Practices in YouTube Through Discourse Analysis

• In Event: Library Research

Abstract

This research project is interested in a niche segment of YouTube's vast database, namely informational video that may be used by middle and high school students to supplement their academic needs. We pose the questions: how are students engaging with YouTube for school-focused tasks, and what role does information literacy play in this experience? We analyze user-generated using computer-mediated discourse analysis to understand the nature of students’ learning in this space, particularly focused on evidence of meaning making, concept negotiation, and information sharing, seeking and use practices. Our findings reveal insights about the nature of instructional video as well as the ways it helps resolve students’ academic information needs.

Author

• Eric Meyers, The University of British Columbia