Analysis of Collaborative Learning in Filmed Role Play on Social Media: A Case of Hospitality Students

Abstract

Role play has been widely used as an instructional technique in promoting collaborative learning. The use of smartphones to record role playing and upload videos on social media is also deemed as an important element that determines the occurrence of collaborative learning. The collaborative learning process in filmed role plays on social media is analyzed through a simple framework which was built on earlier work on the subject; consisting of positive interdependence, promoting interaction, individual accountability, interpersonal and small group skills, and group processing. The research was conducted specifically on hospitality students for practical skills are in high demand in the industry. Filmed role plays and collaborative learning are considered as a fitting media to support the mastery of skills. Fourteen students were asked to create role play videos on hotel check in and check out situations and upload them on YouTube. Qualitative data were obtained from a focus group interview and YouTube comments. The results showed that filmed role plays on social media foster collaborative learning, with reports of relatively high positive interdependence and promotive interaction. The use of social media on filmed role playing was also reported as fun and enjoyable, which appeals more to students’ interests in demonstrating collaborative learning.