Discussion Board: A Learning Object

This paper argues that a discussion board as an integral part of e-learning is a learning object worthy of scrutiny. It explores how current praxis and theory on learning objects can be used to improve the development and application of discussion boards. Implications for discussion board as learning objects are discussed. They include: (1) accessing learning objects via discussion boards, (2) using and sharing learning objects via discussion boards, (3) creating a cycle of composition and decomposition of learning objects via discussion boards, and (4) using computer agents to improve access and communication of the data archived in discussion boards. Recommendations for future research are made.