Modelo para estruturação e representação de diálogos em fórum de discussão

Abstract

The traditional learning practices adaptation to the distance learning introduces several changes in school practice. Since in distance learning the direct contact between educators and students does not exist, new technological artifacts become necessary in order to replace direct interaction. One of these artifacts is the discussion forum, which works as a catalyzer element of the communication between involved ones and can be an important tool in the educational process. Nevertheless, non-structured nature of text messages on a forum hampers its use as a tool in individual student assessment. Analysis and qualification of message contents stored on a forum represents an important challenge for instructors. The absence of a formal representation of concepts, ideas and beliefs from students could be designated as one of the factors that make this challenge even harder. This research proposes the development of a model that allows the messages on a forum can be structured and represented. This structuration considers three message aspects: i) presented concepts, ii) who has presented it, and iii) when concepts have been presented. As a means to validate this model, a computer program was developed and tested in a Moodle virtual environment forum. The concepts developed to the Structuration and Representation of the Forum Messages Model were used on this computer program development. Through the use of this model a map or guide is generated. This map or guide can be accessed by the professor or instructor. This new feature can be used as a support tool to analysis or evaluation of a Moodle forum environment.