Discussion Forums and Weblogs: A Means to Fostering Learning

Abstract

Learning management systems can play an important role in fostering rich teaching and learning experiences for students and instructors in Open and Distance Learning (ODL) institutions. The levels of sophistication of these platforms vary from one institution to another. Decisions regarding the use of the applications available on the learning management systems ought to be linked to their possible pedagogical benefits. In this regard, this study collected data from lecturers offering online courses in an ODL institution in order to explore their views regarding which applications available in their learning management systems stimulated constructivist and observational learning amongst their students. Using Baviskar, Hartle& Whitney’s (2009:543-544) guidelines for constructivist learning and Bandura’s (2001:265-299) observational learning, I employed a phenomenological approach to explore the lived experiences of lecturers regarding online applications for constructivist and observational learning. The findings revealed that Discussion forums and Weblogs proved the most suitable online applications for fostering learning in ODL institutions.

DOI: 10.5901/mjss.2013.v4n13p513