How Alternative Online Discussion Forums Could Benefit Collaborative Written Argumentation

• In Event: Online Learning Experiences

Abstract

How might the design of alternative online discussion forums enhance collaborative written argumentation for secondary students? Prior research has suggested that practice with collaborative oral argumentation can benefit students’ writing. Yet few studies have examined whether and how online discussions might offer similar benefits. Opportunities remain to study how the design of different types of online forums might enable or inhibit students’ participation in collaborative written argumentation. Based on data generated in a Southern US secondary school during a unit on media literacy, we reveal how two alternative forum designs (including one created by Author1) influenced student dialogue and argumentation skills. We discuss implications and challenges for fostering collaborative online dialogues that support students’ argument writing.

Authors

• Glenn G. Smith, University of South Florida

• Michael B. Sherry, University of South Florida

• Kimberly Defusco, University of South Florida