Avoiding Death by Discussion Board: Asynchronous Online Chats in Aviation History

Abstract

Universities and colleges are increasingly turning to online course offerings, especially in aviation education. Faculty are increasingly asked to turn their in-person courses into online flavors. Typically, faculty are creating online courses with discussion boards to mimic the scholarly community that exists in a face-to-face classroom. Faculty often create discussion boards, with varying degrees of effectiveness, to provide for the immersion of community. However, the actual effectiveness of discussion boards is debated in recent research. This research examines Asynchronous Online Chats as a replacement for the "Death by Discussion Board" model. Data from the past two semesters will be examined from an Aviation History course taught at the undergraduate level at the collegiate and university level. Survey instruments used include: Community of Online Learning Patterns of Adaptive Learning Social Achievement Goals

Author

• Walden, Austin T., Ph.D. Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

Keywords

• chat
• asynchronous
• online learning
• discussion boards
• Adult and Continuing Education
• Education
• Psychology