Impact of Discussion Boards to the Success of English Lesson

Abstract

Computer technology has developed and become an indispensable mean to reach the information and communicate with peers in an organized way. Discussions are the keys to enhance the communication among learners. Online peer response that blends written and electronic communication can promote student participation and collaboration. Hence, utilizing online discussion in language learning has potential to increase practice and improve student learning. This study investigated the effects of using discussion on students’ achievement in online courses using the pre-test post-test with control group experimental research design with 32 students studying in the Undergraduate Compulsory Preparatory Program of a state university. Findings of the study showed that integrating discussion in online courses improves students learning more than online courses that do not include discussion.