Using online forums for encouraging higher order thinking and ‘deep’ learning in an undergraduate Sports Sociology module

A growing trend towards using technology for learning in Higher Education presents challenges in terms of providing opportunities for deep learning. This paper focuses on how asynchronous online discussion forums could be used for encouraging deep learning. Four online activities were created; each of which was open to postings for one week. Deep learning was said to have occurred if students demonstrated one or more of the components outlined in Enwistle and Waterston's (1988) model. The results highlighted that activities appeared to encourage various aspects of deep learning including processing new information, connecting facts and interpreting academic material. Additionally, the results highlighted the importance of the teacher's role in facilitating this process. Engagement with the tasks was however identified as an issue. Consequently, it was recommended that further research explores student motivation, in particular how students can be encouraged to take on full participatory roles online.