Title: A comparative study in educational techniques by using combined environment via computer and mobile devices in asynchronous discussion forum

Authors: Kiriakos Patriarcheas; Michalis Xenos

Addresses: School of Sciences and Technology, Computer Science, Hellenic Open University, Par. Aristotelous 18, GR26335, Patras, Greece ' School of Sciences and Technology, Computer Science, Hellenic Open University, Par. Aristotelous 18, GR26335, Patras, Greece

Abstract: This paper focuses on the fora of asynchronous distance education with the purpose of comparing educational techniques widely used in the fields (such as brainstorming and snowballing) in a combined environment both via computer and mobile devices, in the framework of a training program in IT basic skills for primary education teachers. For the purpose of this study, modelling in formal language was used to classify the messages in the Moodle forum (V.1.6) as well as a respective system to automate this procedure. As it is deduced from the data analysis and the study of the text messages in the Moodle forum (V.1.6), the groups using brainstorming technique show higher participation at the forum than those using the snowballing technique. Furthermore, the brainstorming technique is more advantageous than the snowballing technique concerning the educational effectiveness.

Keywords: asynchronous discussion forums; mobile learning; m-learning; adult education; educational techniques; modelling; distance education; brainstorming; snowballing; IT basic skills; information technology; primary education; primary school teachers; teacher training; Moodle; text messages; educational effectiveness.

DOI: 10.1504/IJMC.2014.059239

International Journal of Mobile Communications, 2014 Vol.12 No.1, pp.56 - 77

Published online: 13 Jul 2014 *

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