Research on online learner participation in a web-based course Online publication date: Sat, 23-Aug-2014
by Wenhao Li; Yan Zheng
International Journal of Continuing Engineering Education and Life-Long Learning (IJCEELL), Vol. 22, No. 1/2, 2012
Abstract: This study investigated online learner participation in the context of a web-based course. The course included seven chapters including synchronous audio discussion and asynchronous blog discussion. Data were collected from synchronous chat room participation, asynchronous blog writing and reading participation, the diagnostic test after each chapter, and the final exam. Content analysis and social network analysis were employed in analysing the data. The result showed that the content of discussion would be the trigger of engagement in synchronous participation. However, asynchronous participation to a large extent, takes place within subgroups due to the close relationship. The present research paved a way forward by integrating synchronous activities into an asynchronous setting. And it also provided teachers with a realistic picture on the possibilities and limitations of integrating blogs and audio discussions into the curriculum.
Existing subscribers:
Go to Inderscience Online Journals to access the Full Text of this article.
If you are not a subscriber and you just want to read the full contents of this article, buy online access here.Complimentary Subscribers, Editors or Members of the Editorial Board of the International Journal of Continuing Engineering Education and Life-Long Learning (IJCEELL):
Login with your Inderscience username and password:
Want to subscribe?
A subscription gives you complete access to all articles in the current issue, as well as to all articles in the previous three years (where applicable). See our Orders page to subscribe.
If you still need assistance, please email subs@inderscience.com
Our Blog 
Follow us on Twitter 
Visit us on Facebook