Data Recording and Usage Interaction Analysis in Asynchronous Discussions: The D.I.A.S. System.

Overview & Synopsis

This paper describes the development and the implementation of a new Asynchronous Discussion Forum Software, called DIAS. While evaluating several corresponding software, we came to the conclusion that they seem to be inadequate to support the use of this activity (asynchronous discussion) as a substantial part of the learning process. Most actual forums, that incorporate interaction analysis functions, support mainly administrators, or teachers, while offer only basic awareness functions to the learners. The DIAS system is mainly developed in order to offer extended interaction analysis support, by providing a wide range of indicators jointly used in various learning situations, to all discussion forae users (individual students, groups, teachers or even researchers), appropriate for their various roles in different learning activities. An additional goal is to provide a customizable, flexible and interoperable environment. The present paper briefly describes the reasons that enforced the need to construct this new tool, examining the aspect of CMC (Computer Mediated Communication) assessment. The description of the system's architecture and functionality follows. The implemented technique of recording, storing and analyzing forum data is pointed out, justifying the choices. Finally the description of the on-going case studies of the systems' usage in real conditions and the expected results.