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RELCASI

DOI

10.17705/1relc.00020

Abstract

Distance education has become an important tool in the learning process, not only in the academic environment but also for organizational training. We present the results of a study that involved analyzing the exchange of messages and information sharing by means of web forums, specially conceived to allow for the interaction of teachers and students participating in a semi-presential extension course. Part of the classes and student assignments happened in a virtual learning environment, where students could communicate with one another and with the instructors prior to sending the final versions of their work. This interaction was analyzed for two modules of the Project Management extension program: Scope Management and Quality Management. Results show that the module the instructor was involved more intensely in the forum discussions was the one where students also participated more effusively. The instructor did not even need to write much, the fact of being present in the virtual environment, interfering with quick hints or brief comments was enough to make students more active and participative.

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