A pilot study on e-learning in small online discussion groups and experimental design in biology

Abstract

This pilot study focuses on assessing the effectiveness of discussion in small online student groups. More effective learning may be promoted through properly designed discussion tasks. These can be effective learning tools to promote creativity, student-student and student-teacher interactions, as well as promoting understanding for the learner. A two-week online course was designed for Advanced level biology students aimed at establishing an online learning community to encourage discussion of experimental procedures in small groups of 5–9 students. The study was carried out during a 2-week slot in 2016 and in 2017 with 28 and 38 students respectively. Results based on average scores for the various assigned activities were positive. Most students appreciated acquiring skills when using discussion forums. Students mentioned difficulties with meeting deadlines and the technology. The course needs some tweaking to facilitate further students’ participation.