Exploiting Asynchronous Discussions in Class for Improving 3rd Grade Students’ Writing Ability

Abstract

The aim of the research was to examine the impact of asynchronous discussions’ usage in students’ writing ability. It is proposed that critical thinking skills could be cultivated through electronic discussions and through dialogues students have the opportunity to construct meanings, interact with others and thus acquire knowledge through meaningful communication. In support of this view, the present study was conducted with 3rd Grade students in a primary school in Athens, participating in the creation of an electronic, interactive newspaper through online discussions. The activity was implemented using the DIAS system, an asynchronous discussion platform with integrated Interaction Analysis tools, exploited in this case to facilitate the researcher’s analysis. The results indicate that students made significantly fewer mistakes in the online environment, both quantitatively and qualitatively. Additionally, they took initiatives, worked individually and were engaged into a purposeful interaction with others, therefore reinforcing autonomous learning. Finally their social skills were also facilitated, through the online discussions.