Emily Wyatt Ziegler
November 21, 2017
10:00 am
Hawkins Hall, Room 110

Dissertation Title: An Analysis of Co-Construction of Knowledge and the Role of Social Networks in Asynchronous Discussions

Committee: Dr. William Sadera, Dr. Elizabeth Berquist, Dr. Scot McNary, Dr. Liyan Song

Abstract: As the use of asynchronous discussion boards have become almost commonplace throughout online instruction, those conducting research and practicing teaching in these environments still lack a clear understanding of how learning occurs and the impact of social relationships between participants in these environments. The purpose of this study was to explore the relationship between the co-construction of knowledge and the social network of participants within asynchronous discussions. Results of this mixed-methods study determined no discernable relationship between the co-construction of knowledge and participation within discussion boards. This study upheld the research that learning occurs mostly in the beginning stages of the co-construction of knowledge process signifying factors contribute to the prevalence of low-phase co-construction of knowledge such as objectives set for the discussion and the facilitation of learning. The study found that co-construction of knowledge was not dependent upon the number of posts contributed by an individual, suggesting minimum post requirements may not provide an accurate assessment of earning. This study adds to the growing field of research connecting learning and the social network of learners in an online discussion. Recommendations for practice included: utilizing the principles of the knowledge co-construction process and social networks to develop objectives, assessments, and facilitation techniques.