Share Paper: Detecting Critical Thinking in Synchronous Online Discussions: The Potential Role for Instant Messaging in Higher Education

  1. Susan Olubunmi, Simon Fraser University, Canada
  2. Janet McCracken, Simon Fraser University, Canada
Wednesday, November 19 10:30 AM-11:00 AM Capri 115

Abstract: Abstract: Instant messaging has recently gained the attention of educational researchers who are investigating how this medium may promote learning through collaboration, increased participation and interaction. While several studies indicate that IM has great potential, there is scant evidence as to whether a synchronous tool such as instant messaging can support high-order learning, such as critical thinking. This paper describes a pilot study that attempted to detect critical thinking in synchronous online discussions mediated by an instant messaging tool. The study involved 22 graduate students from a university in Western Canada. Eleven transcripts (containing over 700 messages) were analyzed based ...