The Forum and the Active Learning in Distance Education

Abstract

This study aims to present reflections on the forum as a tool for more active learning in Distance Education, proposing educational practices and posting forms - based on contributions from neuroscience and research results - with the intention of stimulating interactivity in the forums and a deeper and more meaningful appropriation of knowledge. The generating problem of the study was the low participation of students in the forums of distance graduation disciplines. However, with the research, it was observed that the frequency of access to forums is high, but active participation is low, which highlights the need to be constantly encouraged with posts that generate effective interaction; with close, adequate and constant mediation; and with good practice guidelines for acting in forums for teachers, mediators and students. We noticed that students seek out forums to clarify doubts, but also to show their opinion, seek acceptance and have a sense of belonging to the community, factors that have a strong influence on the learning process. The qualitative-quantitative research used the Design Thinking methodology and included SWOT analysis and systematic observation of forums, focus groups with students, interviews with university leaders and mediators, the authors' experience as learning mediators and a questionnaire answered by 1865 distance undergraduate students.

Keywords: Active learning. Neuroscience. Distance learning. Interaction. Forum.