Improving interaction through blogs in a constructivist learning environment

This study determines the ways to improve the interaction through blogs in a course named Information Technology in Education II in which the instruction was realized through a constructive approach. The study was conducted with 18 students enrolled in the Department of Computer Education and Instructional Technologies at Anadolu University during the spring semester of the academic year 2006-2007. Purposeful sampling was applied in order to determine the sample. The research was conducted in a Web-assisted format through the interactive Web 2.0 technology, blog. The application of the research lasted ten weeks between February 19 and June 01, 2007.Based on the nature of the case and in accordance with the purpose of the study, the research was designed as an action research. The application process was realized by the researcher with an instructor who adopted the project application in his course. In addition, an expert panel for the validity of the research process was formed who contributed to the research process in terms of theoretical and application problems experienced.Data were collected through different techniques and data collection tools including observation and interviews. In accordance with the scope and nature of the data, content analysis and descriptive analysis were conducted. In order to sustain credibility, confirmability, consistency, and transferability, several strategies were adopted such as in-depth data collection and data triangulation. In addition, findings were described in detail. The role of the researcher within the application process was clearly described as well. The data and interpretations obtained from the data are contextual, that is, they are peculiar to the unique context of the study.Findings of the study revealed that the Information Technology in Education II Course, which was planned according to constructivist principles and applied through blogs, could improve both instruction and social interaction. Findings also suggested that participants? needs regarding information sharing, instructional support and communication played an important role in their behaviors to interact with each other and with the course instructor. Furthermore, it was observed that blogs can be used as tools to develop interaction in discussions and group works, and sharing mutual interests.