The AAA Model in the Online Classroom Bringing the Student into A Model for Promoting Critical Thinking in the Asynchronous Online Discussion Boards
Date
2020-02-12
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Abstract
A goal of the asynchronous online discussion forum is to promote critical analysis of course concepts and materials and advance that analysis through student interactions with the instructor, and with each other. There is also evidence that ‘lively’ asynchronous discussions contribute to the perceived positive experience of the online learner (Yukselturk, 2010). The AAA Model, (Acknowledge, Add, Ask) developed by Dr. Julee Poole, provides course facilitators with a systematic approach to support this goal when responding to students throughout the discussion. The AAA model, used by Purdue Global Graduate Psychology faculty focuses on a three-pronged instructor discussion response that includes acknowledging the student’s contribution, adding clarifications and new information, then asking a question to encourage student follow up It is also important that students learn to “advance the discussion” by building on each other’s contributions. This presentation will demonstrate the potential for dynamic development in discussion forums when students are taught to use the AAA model in their own peer interactions. Data will be presented to demonstrate the successful use of this model across a number of courses. Participants will learn how they can teach and empower students to employ the AAA model as they respond to each other in the discussion forums. The model can be applied to provide students with guidelines for creating discussion forum responses that move well beyond simple acknowledgment and agreement, creating opportunities for deeper analysis, enhanced learning, and a more interactive and enjoyable course experience. Using the AAA model, both instructors and peers will acknowledge and indicate support of the students work, provide clarification if needed, add new information that will enhance the student’s knowledge and learning experience, and ask thought-provoking questions that will lead to a participatory culture (Jenkins, 2007) of continuous development of critical analysis.
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Online Education, Online Classroom, Online Discussion Forums, Critical Thinking