KF Research 2004
Student Information Sheet

For the specific attention of MSc students on DL.IDLEP, Semester 2 , 2003/2004

Title of Research: Evaluation of a knowledge building discourse.

Research Topic: A practitioner-based enquiry into the effective implementation of knowledge building in an online postgraduate course using a computer-supported intentional learning environment.

Investigator: Terry King, DISCA, University of Portsmouth

Address: DISCA, University of Portsmouth, Burnaby Terrace, 1-8 Burnaby Road, Portsmouth, Hants PO1 3AE

Email: terry.king@port.ac.uk

Outline Aims of the Research:

This project is the second stage of a practitioner-based enquiry which is investigating how a form of problem-based learning, called knowledge building, can be effectively implemented in online collaborative post-graduate courses. The aims of the second stage are to specifically deal with the problems identified in the first stage in 2001/2002.

The aims of this study are therefore to remedy Stage 1 deficiencies in both, the content and structure of course activities, and the quality of online moderation, to facilitate the successful conclusion of a student collaborative efforts in knowledge building as measured by the quality of the student discourse and student attitudes to their own learning and teaching, both in general and on-line.

Data Collection and Analysis:

During the running of the DL.IDLEP unit, students will explore knowledge building theory and practice. Student participation will involve:

Contributions to an on-line Knowledge Forum database and to a range of related discussion forums, and online chat sessions in WebCT.
Entries in reflective learning journal.

Database entries and other contributions will be used as data in this research, along with entries in evaluation forms, and students may be asked to give interviews.

Analysis of these contributions and entries using statistical software tools and various techniques of content analysis will take place after the course unit has been run from June 2004.

Results of the analysis will be used to inform improved practice in the delivery of online knowledge building.

Ethical Assurances to Students

Although you will be involved in learning on a unit which is also a research project, there are no known risks for students taking part in this study. During the teaching of this unit, the interest taken by the tutor in ensuring the success of the unit will be no different to that which would normally occur from a professional teacher on any unit, and the teaching on the unit will run without it being a noticebly active research project from the students’ perspective. No analysis of data will take place until after the unit coursework has been submitted and marked.

Complete transparency of intention will be maintained at all times and the full Research Protocol for this enquiry will be posted for your perusal and comment as soon as it would not compromise the aims of unit activities in the early weeks of the unit.

While your name may appear against items in the Knowledge Forum database and other contributions, no data will ever be presented with your name or image on it, unless you specifically give permission. Every attempt will be made to ensure complete anonymity of the participants at all times. Wherever possible, entries will also be de-contextualised.

Your involvement in this research is voluntary. Your participation will not influence in any way the evaluation of your performance on this course. Your positive consent will be required on an “Informed Consent Form” but you will not be required to give this until the end of the semester. You may change you mind about participating in the research enquiry and withdraw your data from the study at any time.

If you have any questions

Additional questions about this research or your rights may be directed to:

Terry King