In Packback, the means through which students and instructors can “upvote” or “like” posts.
Published in Chapter:
Using an AI-Supported Online Discussion Forum to Deepen Learning
Tamarin Butcher (Texas State University, USA), Michelle Fulks Read (Texas State University, USA), Ann Evans Jensen (Texas State University, USA), Gwendolyn M. Morel (Texas State University, USA), Alexander Nagurney (University of Hawaii at Hilo, USA), and Patrick A. Smith (Texas State University, USA)
Copyright: © 2020
|Pages: 29
DOI: 10.4018/978-1-7998-3292-8.ch016
Abstract
Student-to-student interaction is a key element in the learning process, and one that is often missing in online classes. The purpose of this case study is to demonstrate how a technology platform that leverages artificial intelligence (AI) can be used to deepen learning in online discussions by analyzing instructor and student perceptions and examining third-party analytics in two hybrid/blended undergraduate courses. The instructors selected Packback, a third-party online discussion platform, to address some of the engagement issues they encountered in the past when using discussion tools within learning management systems (LMS). Packback increased the depth of student discussions by providing real-time feedback to students on the quality of their posts, thus allowing students to improve the quality of their posts. Packback also allowed for more nuanced evaluation and grading of students' forum posts by instructors.