In this paper we propose an innovative method, called Inter-Actions Network Analysis, to analyze discussions occurring via web-forums. The method has been tested on a blended university course about “Educational Psychology and E-Learning”. The theoretical combines Activity Theory and Speech Analysis Theory. The method is composed by three steps through which a mix of qualitative, content analysis, and quantitative analysis is performed. The first step provides a segmentation of notes in speech actions and the identifi cation of the categories and sub-categories designed according to the Activity Theory, so to fi nalize a grid. In the second step the grid is applied and elicited and eliciting communicative actions are organized into a matrix. Finally, the third step investigates the network of the communicative actions through the Social Network Analysis. The method has been tested on a corpus of data consists of 72 notes posted by ten university students. This type of analysis allows deep understanding of the dynamic and the structure of the discussion and allows teachers and tutors to monitor and direct the discussion toward the predefi ned goals.
A method for the Analysis of Inter-action in an Online Learning Community
Ligorio Maria BeatriceWriting – Review & Editing
;
2012-01-01
Abstract
In this paper we propose an innovative method, called Inter-Actions Network Analysis, to analyze discussions occurring via web-forums. The method has been tested on a blended university course about “Educational Psychology and E-Learning”. The theoretical combines Activity Theory and Speech Analysis Theory. The method is composed by three steps through which a mix of qualitative, content analysis, and quantitative analysis is performed. The first step provides a segmentation of notes in speech actions and the identifi cation of the categories and sub-categories designed according to the Activity Theory, so to fi nalize a grid. In the second step the grid is applied and elicited and eliciting communicative actions are organized into a matrix. Finally, the third step investigates the network of the communicative actions through the Social Network Analysis. The method has been tested on a corpus of data consists of 72 notes posted by ten university students. This type of analysis allows deep understanding of the dynamic and the structure of the discussion and allows teachers and tutors to monitor and direct the discussion toward the predefi ned goals.I documenti in IRIS sono protetti da copyright e tutti i diritti sono riservati, salvo diversa indicazione.
