An introduction to analysis of science knowledge construction in an asynchronous discussion forum

Abstract

This paper will introduce two methodologies known as Knowledge Construction – Message Mapping (KCMM) and Knowledge Construction – Message Graph (KCMG) for analyzing knowledge-construction as well as mis-construction occurring in an online asynchronous discussion forum that potentially could advance understanding of these processes. The ubiquitous adoption of online asynchronous discussion forum in the field of Computer Supported Collaborative Learning (CSCL) has far outpaced the understanding of how this dynamic and collaborative learning tool should best be used to promote independent and higher-order learning. The adoption of an asynchronous discussion forum provides opportunities for an in-depth analysis of students’ transcripts to understand the peer’s interaction and knowledge construction in learning. This article will introduce an instrument for tracing the communication patterns and the knowledge construction as well as mis-construction processes of students working in groups, discussing subject-related content using an innovative approach to map the messages of students’ postings. It is hoped that this approach will foster in-depth understanding as well as refining a categorical system to indicate the level of attainment for knowledge attained, through the use of this proposed instrument. This will enhance educational practitioners and researchers to describe on-line interaction with a more systematic approach and adopt a measurement methodology more effectively than anecdotally.