Three Types of Instructor Facilitation in Online Discussion

• In Event: 35.029 - Instructional Features of Online Learning Environments

Abstract

Facilitation of meaningful discourse is a crucial role of an instructor in online learning. What the instructor emphasizes in discussion forums will affect the interactivities of students and the quality of the discussion. This study examined the effects of three types of instructor comments: praise-oriented, elaboration-encouraging, and multi-perspective. Data was collected from an online graduate course where 18 students discussed four instructional design issues. Multi-perspective comments, suggesting different or challenging opinions, facilitated knowledge construction and initiation. Elaboration-encouraging comments, requesting the elaboration of ideas, facilitated active interactions. Praise-oriented comments, agreeing with and making a compliment on students’ initial ideas, did not bring a significant effect on discussion.

Authors

• Kyungbin Kwon, Indiana University - Bloomington

• Su Jin Park, Indiana University - Bloomington

• Suhkyung Shin, Texas Tech University

• Chae Young Chang