Doctoral students’ perceptions of student-led discussion forums in online classes

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to examine graduate students’ perceptions regarding student-led discussion forums in online classes. Qualitative data were collected from 2014 to 2021 from 65 doctoral students enrolled in a cohort model, fully online doctoral program focused on administration and leadership in education at a doctoral research university in Texas. A total of eight cohorts were represented. Results indicated that the majority of students (91%) liked student-led discussions and would consider implementing them if given an opportunity to teach graduate-level online courses. Five distinct themes emerged through participants’ qualitative responses: in-depth learning, diversity of thoughts, student engagement, teaching skills, and time-consuming. Based on the findings, implications for practice are highlighted which can benefit faculty teaching graduate-level online courses.

Keywords:

• student-led discussion boards
• online teaching
• online learning
• graduate online instruction
• online teaching strategies

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was declared by the author(s).

Data availability statement

The data that support the findings of this study are available from the corresponding author, upon reasonable request.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Nara M. Martirosyan

Nara M. Martirosyan, EdD, is an associate professor of the Developmental Education Administration Doctoral Program at Sam Houston State University. Her research focuses on best practices in developmental education and online teaching, international students, student satisfaction, and program evaluation in higher education. Email: [email protected].

D. Patrick Saxon

D. Patrick Saxon, EdD, is a professor and director of the Developmental Education Administration Doctoral Program at Sam Houston State University. He has published extensively and is coauthor of Attaining Excellence in Developmental Education. He is also a Council for Learning Assistance and Developmental Education Associations Fellow. Email: [email protected].

Sandra Lee Coleman

Sandra L. Coleman, EdD, is an assistant professor of mathematics at the College of the Mainland. Her research interests include best practices in developmental mathematics, distance education, and college success courses. Email: [email protected].