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Online Discussion and Learning Outcomes

Author

Listed:
  • William T. Alpert

    (University of Connecticut)

  • Oskar R. Harmon

    (University of Connecticut)

  • Joseph Histen

    (University of Connecticut)

Abstract

In this paper we describe how we used online discussion forums to complement lecture presentations. We collected data on student usage and surveyed student opinion in several online/blended sections. Our hypothesis is that increased student participation in online discussion forums will increase learner engagement and learning outcomes. Using panel data we estimate a fixed effects model and find active participation in the discussion board has a positive effect on exam score at a statistically significant level. JEL Classification: A2, A22 Key words: Online Instruction, Social Media, Facebook

Suggested Citation

  • William T. Alpert & Oskar R. Harmon & Joseph Histen, 2012. "Online Discussion and Learning Outcomes," Working papers 2012-35, University of Connecticut, Department of Economics.
    • Handle: RePEc:uct:uconnp:2012-35
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Coates, Dennis & Humphreys, Brad R. & Kane, John & Vachris, Michelle A., 2004. ""No significant distance" between face-to-face and online instruction: evidence from principles of economics," Economics of Education Review, Elsevier, vol. 23(5), pages 533-546, October.
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    4. Daniel R. Marburger, 2006. "Does Mandatory Attendance Improve Student Performance?," The Journal of Economic Education, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 37(2), pages 148-155, April.
    5. David Figlio & Mark Rush & Lu Yin, 2013. "Is It Live or Is It Internet? Experimental Estimates of the Effects of Online Instruction on Student Learning," Journal of Labor Economics, University of Chicago Press, vol. 31(4), pages 763-784.
    6. Paolo Pellizzari, 2012. "Facebook as an academic learning platform: A case study in Mathematics," Working Papers 2012_01, Department of Economics, University of Venice "Ca' Foscari".
    7. Chiara Gratton-Lavoie & Denise Stanley, 2009. "Teaching and Learning Principles of Microeconomics Online: An Empirical Assessment," The Journal of Economic Education, Taylor & Francis Journals, vol. 40(1), pages 3-25, January.
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    Cited by:

    1. Delio I. Castaneda & Sergio Cuellar, 2021. "Knowledge Sharing in Business Education," Sustainability, MDPI, vol. 13(7), pages 1-19, March.

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    More about this item

    Keywords

    online instruction; social media; facebook;
    All these keywords.

    JEL classification:

    • A20 - General Economics and Teaching - - Economic Education and Teaching of Economics - - - General

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