Title: Fostering collaborative knowledge building by the effective provision of knowledge about the discussion process

Authors: Santi Caballe, Fatos Xhafa

Addresses: Department of Computer Sciences, Multimedia and Telecommunication, Open University of Catalonia, Rambla del Poblenou, 156, 08018 Barcelona, Spain. ' Department of Languages and Informatics Systems, Technical University of Catalonia, Jordi Girona 1-3, 08034 Barcelona, Spain

Abstract: This paper reports on an experience of using an innovative CSCL tool to support real, collaborative learning by discussion. We base the success of online collaborative discussion on two crucial aspects: first, by providing an adequate dialogue structure and move types that promote meaningful contributions and achieve more effective interaction; second, by extracting relevant knowledge in order to provide learners and tutors with efficient awareness, feedback, and monitoring as regards learners| performance and collaboration. The ultimate goal is to achieve a more effective support and assessment of the discussion process. A real virtual learning environment based on asynchronous discussion is employed to validate the approach.

Keywords: web based distance education; CSCL; computer supported collaborative learning; student performance; VLE; virtual learning environments; collaborative learning; computer mediated communication; interactive learning environments; feedback; system architecture; educational technology; e-learning; electronic learning; knowledge extraction.

DOI: 10.1504/IJBIDM.2009.026907

International Journal of Business Intelligence and Data Mining, 2009 Vol.4 No.2, pp.175 - 194

Published online: 08 Jul 2009 *

Full-text access for editors Full-text access for subscribers Purchase this article Comment on this article