Learning to ‘chat’ in a virtual learning environment: Using online synchronous discussion to conduct a first year undergraduate tutorial

Previous research has confirmed that most university tutors are using virtual learning environments (VLE’s) to simply distribute course materials rather than to build on the learning generated in face to face interactions. Unless VLE’s are actually used to enhance the learning of the student over traditional face to face interactions, they remain merely a virtual environment. The purpose of this pilot study was to implement and critically assess the use of online synchronous discussion (OSD) to conduct an online tutorial through a university VLE. The aim was to identify if these online communication tools can be used in a way that actually enhances student learning. The effectiveness of the online tutorial was measured using student questionnaire (n=91), focus group and analysis of the tutorial discussion transcript. Students found the conversational style of OSD very useful for getting queries answered quickly and effectively and the multimedia functions useful for keeping a record of the discussion and for scaffolding their understanding. The OSD was also an effective medium of communication for students who would normally be unlikely to contribute to face to face discussions. However, the study concluded that one or a combination of the following aspects limited the effectiveness of the OSD: the large size of the group; the one-off nature of the tutorial; its similarity to other social communication applications; and the characteristics of the OSD software tools. The study’s recommendations build on previous models of teaching and learning with technology and stress the use of constructivist and ‘communal constructivist’ principles to deliver future OSD. The importance of establishing a pedagogical framework is discussed when teaching with new technologies.