Academic Use of Forums in eLearning - Perceptions, Findings and Truths

Abstract

Forums or threaded discussions are one of the most commonly used tools in online teaching. They provide a facility for asynchronous discussion on a particular topic or issue over an extended period of time. Students enrolled in eLearning courses are able to reflect upon their ideas before sharing them with others. eLearning is gradually becoming an alternate way of study for most young people who prefer to use the Internet, portable devices and digital media. While eLearning offers many advantages, it is often seen as faceless media that does very little to enhance social interaction, discussion or collaboration. Online interaction in eLearning courses becomes more restrained in countries where educational systems fail to prepare students to asking questions or sharing their ideas. This paper discusses tools for online communication, paying particular attention to the use of forums provided within a Learning Management System (LMS). This paper shares few perceptions, truths and findings about forums based on the data derived from Moodle “Reports” and logs of 4 online courses offered in a Information and Communication Technology (ICT) program at a local university. It evaluates the use of forums in terms of educational pedagogy and its advantages and limitations in a cultural context. This paper will be of use to those who value the forums as collaborative communication tool in virtual learning environments and how their usage could be measured and enhanced.