To BlikBook or not to BlikBook: Exploring student engagement of an online discussion platform

ABSTRACT

This paper reports on the use of BlikBook, a course engagement platform for tutors and students that facilitates academic engagement in higher education. Based on a case study where BlikBook was essential to the design and delivery of a large undergraduate module, the paper discusses how the platform opens new avenues for student feedback, and encourages more independence in peer-led student groups. The paper makes several important contributions to knowledge and practice. Firstly, it outlines the process of introducing new software within a university context, and identifies potential pitfalls. Secondly, it offers an assessment of BlikBook that was previously untried in the case study organisation. Thirdly, previous studies have focused primarily on students’ perceptions of online platforms, rather than on the differences in experiences between students and tutors, whereas the present study explores both aspects. Findings suggest that incorporating BlikBook in teaching could improve student engagement.

Abbreviation: (HE) - Higher Education

KEYWORDS:

• BlikBook
• course engagement platform
• student engagement
• higher education

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the authors.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

Mark Crowder

Mark Crowder is Senior Lecturer at Manchester Metropolitan University. He studied at LJMU and the University of Liverpool before gaining his PhD in cognitive psychology at the University of Chester. His research interests focus upon decision-making and Higher Education.

Marilena Antoniadou

Marilena Antoniadou is Senior Lecturer at Manchester Metropolitan University. Her PhD in Organisational Behaviour specialises in the role of discrete emotions and emotional events in the workplace. Her research interests are also within the field of Higher Education.

Jim Stewart

Jim Stewart is Professor in HRD at Liverpool John Moores University. He is author/co-author/co-editor of 25 books on the topics of HRD and Learning and Development as well as numerous journal articles. Jim is a former Vice Chair for Research and Chair of UFHRD. He is currently UFHRD Executive Secretary.