Online Discussion Boards in the Constructivist Classroom

Abstract

The purpose of this chapter is to provide pre-service and practicing teachers a constructivist lens for viewing how they use technology, specifically online discussion boards, in their classrooms. The chapter introduces the idea that online discussion boards present a unique opportunity for constructivist teachers in particular and then provides several specific and practical strategies for ways to use discussion boards in the classroom. Each of these strategies connects to the roots of constructivist beliefs. In particular, this chapter highlights the role that writing can play when using this technology.