DeWitt, Dorothy, et al. "Interactions in online forums: a case study among first year undergraduate students." Frontiers in Education. Vol. 2. No. 1. Frontiers Media, 2014.

This study investigates the interactions among undergraduate students in an online discussion forum for a course titled Computers in Counseling. It analyzes the types of interactions—cognitive (46.0%), attitudes (22.3%), social (19.6%), and noise (5.3%)—and assesses their contribution to knowledge-building. A survey revealed that 60% of students found discussion forums effective for collaborative learning, and they recognized the development of ICT, communication, and self-regulated learning skills. Open-ended responses indicated that forums were valuable for constructing knowledge, highlighting the importance of fostering collaborative interactions in online learning environments.