Exploring the Attitudes, Experiences and Dynamics of Interaction in Online Groups
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| Title: | Exploring the Attitudes, Experiences and Dynamics of Interaction in Online Groups |
|---|---|
| Language: | English |
| Authors: | Finegold, Adam R. D., Cooke, Louise |
| Source: | Internet and Higher Education. 2006 9(3):201-215. |
| Availability: | Elsevier. 6277 Sea Harbor Drive, Orlando, FL 32887-4800. Tel: 877-839-7126; Tel: 407-345-4020; Fax: 407-363-1354; e-mail: usjcs@elsevier.com; Web site: http://www.elsevier.com |
| Peer Reviewed: | Y |
| Physical Description: | |
| Page Count: | 15 |
| Publication Date: | 2006 |
| Document Type: | Journal Articles Reports - Research |
| Education Level: | Higher Education |
| Descriptors: | Group Discussion, Computer Mediated Communication, Student Attitudes, Interaction, Content Analysis, Methods, Case Studies, Higher Education, Visual Aids, Questionnaires, Group Dynamics, Familiarity, Collegiality |
| DOI: | 10.1016/j.iheduc.2006.06.003 |
| ISSN: | 1096-7516 |
| Abstract: | The aim of this research was to improve understanding of the attitudes, experiences and dynamics of interaction of students working in online groups. This was achieved through a case study of postgraduate Information Studies students using the WebCT discussion board at City University in the academic year 2004-2005. Qualitative and quantitative methods were employed in combination including questionnaires, interviews, document analysis, and discussion board analysis. The latter method involved adapting an existing content analysis framework. The findings highlight the significance of group member participation, collegiality, and familiarity among group members. Students enjoyed working in online groups and found the discussion board useful, but often gave preference to other communication methods. Lecturer presence in online groups was found to be important to students, but interaction on the group discussion board was mostly student-centred. Provision of non-referential topic-related information, opinion, and solidarity were the most common types of interaction. (Contains 4 tables.) |
| Abstractor: | As Provided |
| Entry Date: | 2008 |
| Accession Number: | EJ800778 |
| Database: | ERIC |
| Abstract: | The aim of this research was to improve understanding of the attitudes, experiences and dynamics of interaction of students working in online groups. This was achieved through a case study of postgraduate Information Studies students using the WebCT discussion board at City University in the academic year 2004-2005. Qualitative and quantitative methods were employed in combination including questionnaires, interviews, document analysis, and discussion board analysis. The latter method involved adapting an existing content analysis framework. The findings highlight the significance of group member participation, collegiality, and familiarity among group members. Students enjoyed working in online groups and found the discussion board useful, but often gave preference to other communication methods. Lecturer presence in online groups was found to be important to students, but interaction on the group discussion board was mostly student-centred. Provision of non-referential topic-related information, opinion, and solidarity were the most common types of interaction. (Contains 4 tables.) |
|---|---|
| ISSN: | 1096-7516 |
| DOI: | 10.1016/j.iheduc.2006.06.003 |
