Place of forums in online communication through an LMS platform

Abstract

Web 2.0 communication tools have great potential to support collaborative learning. However, it is essential to conduct research into how learners and teachers have experienced the use of new communication tools, such as discussion forums. In this contribution, our aim is to evaluate the effectiveness of a collaborative learning environment linked to a discussion forum in the context of e-learning. We examine the use of forums as a communication tool in learning contexts across four stages of the learning process via a Learning Management System (LMS) platform. We will focus on the specific integration and management of the forum at each stage, and how forums can be strategically and effectively integrated into each stage of the educational process, fostering constructive interaction and collaborative learning throughout.