Playing Out the Realities of Web‐Based Bulletin Boards: Enhancing Face to Face Learning

Abstract

Using web‐based bulletin boards in classes elicited enthusiastic responses from graduate education students. In addition, the participants' perspectives as educators and educators‐in‐training enabled them to reflect on how it enhanced learning, created a greater sense of community and encouraged participation through its use. Some negative aspects of web‐based conferencing also emerged. This article is based on a study of 109 students and describes the technology used, where it is freely available, student reflections on the experience, and recommendations for use in higher education instruction. The findings will encourage educators to consider incorporating this technology even into their non‐distance education classes.