Supporting Problem Solving With Online Discussions: A Social Network Analysis

• In Event: Promoting Meaningful Social Interaction in Online Learning

Abstract

Online learning continues to grow, and asynchronous discussions continue to be a central component of online courses. In case-based instruction, online discussions help learners make sense of complex problems. At the same time, social network analysis (SNA) offers a way to gain an in-depth network structure analysis using numerical data to display learners’ interactions. Little research has considered how social networks in an online discussion impact student performance. Using SNA, we considered the relationship between the social interaction network in an online discussion and learners’ problem-solving skills. We found that the number of posts, replies, and connections were significantly related to performance in both assignments and overall course grade. Individual interactions with instructors were significantly related to overall course performance.

Authors

• Yishi Long, Purdue University

• Zui Cheng, Shenzhen University

• Adrie A Koehler, Purdue University