INVESTIGATION OF PARTICIPATION IN STUDENT-LED ONLINE DISCUSSION WITH RESPECT TO MANAGEMENT RESPONSIBILITY AND LEARNING STYLES

This study aims to investigate participation in online discussion that is designed as a part of student-led blended learning environment with respect to management responsibility and learning styles. Participation was determined by using quantitative data regarding the number of messages sent, length of messages, login frequency, and stay time. The course was based on blended learning with face-to-face and online features. Online forums were established as a part of the online dimension of the learning environment, where all dimensions were led by student teams established by student choice. They were expected to interact in this environment via discussions and enhance their learning. Data were gathered through the quantitative examination of the forum discussion records. Parametric and non-parametric statistical techniques were used for the analyses. The difference in student participation during student-led weeks and other weeks was analyzed, as well as the effects of learning style on participation. While the effects of learning style on participation appeared to be not significant, management responsibility was observed to increase participation significantly across all teams.