This study examines the relationship between two ways of measuring critical thinking in online discussion forums. The study proposes that the results from content analysis, a well-developed technique that is used to measure level of thinking and knowledge construction in online environment, would relate to the results from social network analysis, a proposed technique that may give us insight into the process of knowledge construction. This study helps online educators provide better support to nurture learners' critical thinking skills and provide them with simple methods for monitoring online classrooms. It also helps instructional designers develop and maintain online learning environments that foster critical thinking skills and increase levels of knowledge construction. Finally, it adds to the body of research in critical thinking in relation to validation of existing measurements and finding novel yet simple methods for assessing critical thinking in online learning environments. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com.bibliotheek.ehb.be/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]