Asynchronous Knowledge Sharing and Conversation Interaction Impact on Grade in an Online Business Course

Abstract

Student knowledge sharing and conversation theory interactions were coded from asynchronous discussion forums to measure the effect of learning-oriented utterances on academic performance. The sample was 3 terms of an online business course (in an accredited MBA program) at a U.S.-based university. Correlation, stepwise regression, and multiple least squares regression were used to create a statistically significant model with 4 interaction factors that captured 89% of adjusted variance effect on grade. Although factor multicollinearity was excessive, the model supported a hypothesis that more student interaction in all 4 discussion forums predicted a higher grade. Certain types of asynchronous forums presented negative factor coefficients, which implied too much interaction may be counterproductive (cognitive load theory or the law of diminishing returns).

Keywords:

• academic performance
• asynchronous conversation utterances
• distance education
• e-learning
• online business course
• knowledge sharing
• student interaction