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Introduction

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Student Participation in Online Discussions

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Abstract

This chapter presents the basic concepts that characterize asynchronous online discussion environments from the standpoint of collaborative learning. Collaborative learning essentially focuses on the negotiation or discussion of ideas among participants. Traditionally, discussion occurs in face-to-face learning classroom environments. However, face-to-face classroom discussions are typically limited by several factors. In this chapter, the various limitations of face-to-face discussions are first discussed. Then, the role of asynchronous online discussion, its potential benefits to student learning, and an actual example of how asynchronous online discussion can be integrated into a blended learning course are presented.

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  1. National Institute of Education, Learning Sciences, and Technologies, Nanyang Technological University, 1 Nanyang Walk, Singapore, 637616, Singapore

    Khe Foon Hew & Wing Sum Cheung

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  1. Khe Foon Hew
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  2. Wing Sum Cheung
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Correspondence to Khe Foon Hew .

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Hew, K.F., Cheung, W.S. (2012). Introduction. In: Student Participation in Online Discussions. Springer, New York, NY. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4614-2370-6_1

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