ERIC Number: EJ1465715
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2025-Apr
Pages: 28
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1360-2357
EISSN: EISSN-1573-7608
Available Date: 2024-09-17
Investigating the Behaviors of Core and Periphery Students in an Asynchronous Online Discussion Community Using Network Analysis and Topic Modeling
Wanli Xing1; Hai Li1; Taehyun Kim1; Wangda Zhu1; Yukyeong Song1
Education and Information Technologies, v30 n5 p5561-5588 2025
Although researchers recognize the importance of discussing support for math learning within online learning communities, there is a lack of relevant network classifying methods and analyses at the group level to understand the behavioral differences between groups with varying levels of activity, including their mathematical literacies. In this research, we investigated different groups within a large asynchronous online discussion community for middle school students, focusing on their interaction patterns and the quality of their mathematical engagement. First, we employed an extended Surprise detection algorithm that evaluates interaction quality to classify users into core, periphery, and extra-periphery groups. Following this classification, we performed social network analysis to understand the interaction patterns among these groups. For discourse analysis, we used topic modeling methods to analyze the socio-semantic network structure of the discussions. To assess differences in math literacy and discussion success rates among the groups, we applied the Mann-Whitney U test. Findings indicate that each group is more responsive to its members, with the core group demonstrating a balanced response pattern. X-periphery students primarily engage in casual chats and open queries, indicating a more focused participation aimed at immediate learning needs. Notably, the X-periphery group exhibits the highest math literacy and discussion success rates, suggesting that lower activity levels do not hinder communication efficiency. These findings highlight the importance of considering group dynamics and roles in designing online math learning activities to foster effective communication and support, offering practical insights for sustaining online learning communities through tailored discussion activities.
Descriptors: Computer Mediated Communication, Asynchronous Communication, Group Discussion, Communities of Practice, Models, Network Analysis, Social Networks, Semantics, Numeracy, Group Dynamics, Student Needs, Instructional Design, Mathematics Activities
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Author Affiliations: 1University of Florida, Gainesville, USA