Educational affordances of an asynchronous online discussion forum for language learners
Loading...
Supplementary material
Other Title
Authors
Zhong, Qunyan (Maggie)
Norton, Howard
Norton, Howard
Author ORCID Profiles (clickable)
Degree
Grantor
Date
2018-11
Supervisors
Type
Journal Article
Ngā Upoko Tukutuku (Māori subject headings)
Keyword
second language acquisition (SLA)
asynchronous online discussion (AOD)
English language students in China
affordance
learner autonomy
language learning
e-learning
educational technology in language learning
computer-mediated communication (CMC)
collaborative learning
asynchronous online discussion (AOD)
English language students in China
affordance
learner autonomy
language learning
e-learning
educational technology in language learning
computer-mediated communication (CMC)
collaborative learning
ANZSRC Field of Research Code (2020)
Citation
Zhong, Q., & Norton, H. (2018). Educational affordances of an asynchronous online discussion forum for language learners. TESL-EJ, 22(3), 1-19.
Abstract
Information and communications technologies offer unprecedented opportunities for innovation in educational practice. Among all the educational technological tools, online discussion forums represent one of the most extensively adopted educational media in higher education. Yet a review of the literature indicates a lack of empirical studies investigating how learners utilize this tool to afford their language learning. This study aims to address this gap in the literature. Using thematic analysis, postings of 20 second language (L2) learners in a peer-moderated online discussion forum were analysed. Qualitative thematic analysis of the data revealed that the online discussion forum facilitated the co-construction of subject matter knowledge and enhanced learners’ critical understanding. The postings also showed that during the interactive, collaborative inquiry, students encouraged and helped each other emotionally and academically which helped foster group affiliation and learner autonomy. These findings suggest that the online discussion forum has many affordances which are conducive to effective learning. The paper concludes with pedagogical implications and suggestions for future research.
Publisher
Permanent link
Link to ePress publication
DOI
Copyright holder
Authors
Copyright notice
Copyright rests with authors. Please cite TESL-EJ appropriately.