Exploring Different Types of Interaction on Collaborative Learning in Online Platforms

Abstract

There is a need for collaborative learning that promotes students' diverse interactions in online platforms. The purpose of this study is to investigate four types of interaction (social, learning, egocentric and allocentric interaction) in collaborative learning environment that based on Moodle and WeChat. The sample of this study includes 78 students (age 20-24) in China who have experience using Moodle and WeChat. The results indicate that Moodle is more suitable for learning interaction while WeChat is more suitable for social interaction. The overall interaction knowledge construction level is relatively low in two platforms. It is concluded that choosing appropriate learning platform supporting students' diverse interactions are important in online learning.