Online Asynchronous Discussion Boards. Busywork or Beneficial?

Abstract

Asynchronous and blended learning venues are experiencing rapid growth worldwide. Research which provides data to support student success in the increasing sector of online and blended delivery venues can be invaluable for students, course developers and instructors. A mixed-methods survey was sent to all Business students at Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University (Worldwide) in both graduate and undergraduate programs. There were 513 usable responses that contained rich data about student perceptions of online discussions boards. Elements evaluated include faculty engagement, student engagement, overall activity value, good and bad practices, as well as student engagement preferences and naming conventions. Statistical analysis and text mining were performed to identify relationships and trends in the qualitative and quantitative data. The results indicated that students find value in online discussion boards although they do not accurately replicate a traditional classroom discussion. Many additional components of good and bad discussion board practices were discovered.