Assessment of online discussion in work‐integrated learning

Abstract

PurposeThe purpose of this paper is to examine how online discussion can be used in work‐integrated learning as a vehicle for students to demonstrate their learning in the workplace and to facilitate collaborative learning where face‐to‐face classes are not feasible.Design/methodology/approachThe paper evaluates the use of assessable online discussion in facilitating collaborative learning and scaffolding reflection in work placement subjects. It reviews the literature regarding the use of online discussion, particularly for work placement subjects, and evaluates the use of an online discussion forum in a case study subject in the Queensland University of Technology (QUT) undergraduate law course.FindingsThe paper suggests that assessable online discussion forums are appropriate to facilitate student collaboration and collaborative learning in work placement subjects.Originality/valueThe paper is original in its examination of the assessment of online discussion in a work‐integrated learning context.

Organizational policy as a moderator between online social networking and job performance

“…For instance, Moller (1998) states that collaborative learning processes promote the kind of learning necessary for present and future work preparation. McNamara and Brown (2009) provide evidence that online discussions promote collaborative learning and reflective practice in the workplace. Further, Borden et al (2008) provide evidence that OSN foster collaboration and information sharing between individuals who may be scattered across the country or even the globe.…”

“…Moller, 1998) and reflective practice (e.g. McNamara and Brown, 2009) are essential aspects of workplace learning. For instance, Moller (1998) states that collaborative learning processes promote the kind of learning necessary for present and future work preparation.…”

Quality Assessment of Online Discussion Forums: Construction and Validation of a Scale That Values Student Perception

“…For McNamara and Brown (2009), evaluation for the forum is a crucial indicator to show what and how students are grasping. For online discussion forums are more productive and facilitate learning, the forums need to be assessed appropriately.…”

Six years of lessons learned in monitoring and evaluating online discussion forums

“…Virtual discussions have been in existence since the 1990s and are commonly found in education and business communities and increasingly in the world of health care. Previous studies evaluating online discussion forums and communities of practice in education and business have shown that they enhance teaching, learning, and collaboration (Bezuidenhout, 2009;McNamara & Brown, 2009;McDermott, 2001). Although some basic evaluations of virtual discussions have taken place, relatively few monitoring and evaluation guidelines exist for virtual discussions and other knowledge management activities and evaluation techniques are still being refined (Li et al, 2009).…”