Rivera, Dennis A., Mariane Frenay, and Valérie Swaen. "The learning design of MOOC discussion forums: An analysis of forum instructions and their role in supporting the social construction of knowledge." Technology, Knowledge and Learning 29.2 (2024): 585-615.

This study investigates how forums in four edX MOOCs are designed to support meaningful interactions based on social constructivist principles. By analyzing the specifications, pedagogical instructions, and guidance provided, the research finds that MOOC forums predominantly focus on facilitating cognitive processes, with minimal support for social processes. This design may prioritize individual learning over the social construction of knowledge, which could explain the limited effectiveness of MOOC forums as social learning environments.