Use of On-Line Discussion Forums for Training

Abstract

There is evidence that corporations are currently using e-learning for corporate training. Discussion forums in academia, particularly higher ed, are known to be an effective learning strategy that is widely used across many universities. Adoption of using discussion forums in Corporate America has been slow. Collaboration and discussions are key for the learner's journey, yet not many training initiatives include the use of discussion forums. Why are companies not using discussion forums? What is the resistance behind why discussion forums are not incorporated into training? A study was conducted at Jones Company (pseudonym) to understand the resistance from three levels of employees: the executive, manager, and the employee.