Online Communication Platforms: A New Frontier in Education to Connect Schools, Teachers and Students
Date: 2013-12-07
Degree: Doctoral Thesis
Programme: Philosophy
Authors: Su Iong Kio
Supervisors: Doctor João Garrott Negreiros, University of Saint Joseph
Abstract:
This thesis explores the utilization of online communication platforms, such as social networking sites and online open forums, to enhance the learning experience of high school level students in Macau. Online communication platforms are online resources that allow the exchange of information using the Internet. This research argues that with proper administration by schools, online communication platforms can improve the way students gain knowledge and enrich their learning experience. The research also analyzes how these platforms can inject new ideas into teachers’ teaching practice and elevate their teaching methodology out of the traditional boundaries that are commonplace in Macau. A mixed-method of qualitative and quantitative methodology is interwoven together during the course of this thesis. In the initial investigation phase, both questionnaires and focus group are conducted to pin point the issues and concerns that are of importance to the teachers and the students. A more comprehensive investigation is then developed and administered to the whole student population of a typical secondary school in Macau to investigate the current condition on the usage of social networking sites among secondary school students. One specific class within that school is selected to participate in a year-long experiment of utilizing Facebook group as a complementary platform to assist classroom teaching. Data are analyzed by quantitative tools to measure improvement and qualitative tools to develop strategies and tactics. During the course of this thesis, guidelines and recommendations are developed to help schools effectively administrate and promote the online communication platforms within the schools and also in cooperation with other schools. Cautions and pitfalls are identified from both the literature and the experiments from this research to provide alerts to school administrations during the implementation process.
