Discussion boards as collaborative learning tools

Discussion boards are seen as convenient learning tools to use with higher education students. Although even the most basic learning management system has a discussion board available, unless the academic has a clear purpose for the discussion board, students will not use it. This article presents ways in which collaboration can occur between students and academics through the researcher's experience of using discussion boards with on- and off-campus students. Student's perceptions of the use of discussion boards will demonstrate ways in which learning can occur through student/student, student/academic or individual use of the discussion board. Their perceptions will provide evidence of a discussion board being used as a community of practice. Ethical and moral issues around the use of discussion boards will also be discussed. The article also provides a variety of scenarios on how to use discussion board with students.