Research on online learner participation in a web-based course

摘要

This study investigated online learner participation in the context of a web-based course. The course included seven chapters including synchronous audio discussion and asynchronous blog discussion. Data were collected from synchronous chat room participation, asynchronous blog writing and reading participation, the diagnostic test after each chapter, and the final exam. Content analysis and social network analysis were employed in analysing the data. The result showed that the content of discussion would be the trigger of engagement in synchronous participation. However, asynchronous participation to a large extent, takes place within subgroups due to the close relationship. The present research paved a way forward by integrating synchronous activities into an asynchronous setting. And it also provided teachers with a realistic picture on the possibilities and limitations of integrating blogs and audio discussions into the curriculum.