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Introducing a twitter discussion board to support learning in online and blended learning environments

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Abstract

In this research we present a new design component for online learning communities (OLC); one that integrates Twitter with an online discussion board (ODB). We introduce our design across two sections of upper-division information systems courses at a university located within the U.S. The first section consisted of full-time online learners, while the second section met face-to-face twice a week. Guided by a working theoretical model for how individuals learn and interact within OLCs, we measure student perceptions of learning, social interaction and course community before and after our intervention. Initial findings were largely positive and students across both sections experienced high levels of learning, interaction and community. Our results pave the way for more integrated learning environments that incorporate online social networking (OSN) technologies.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. SUNY Farmingdale, Farmingdale, NY, USA

    Brian Thoms

  2. Bloomsburg University, Bloomsburg, PA, USA

    Evren Eryilmaz

  3. Computer Systems Department, School of Business, Farmingdale State College, 2350 Broadhollow Road, Farmingdale, NY, 11735-1021, USA

    Brian Thoms

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  1. Brian Thoms
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  2. Evren Eryilmaz
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Correspondence to Brian Thoms.

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Thoms, B., Eryilmaz, E. Introducing a twitter discussion board to support learning in online and blended learning environments. Educ Inf Technol 20, 265–283 (2015). https://doi.org/10.1007/s10639-013-9279-3

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