4.3.4 “Grading” the Discussions

114

4.3.5 Relative Versus Absolute Scores

117

4.4 Results

119

4.4.1 Media Effects Matter Relatively Little

123

4.4.2 Use of Perspectives and Evidence

124

4.4.3 Time on Task

125

4.4.4 Complicating Factors

130

4.5 Summary

131

Chapter 5: Designing Better Online Learning Environments

133

5.1 The Challenge of Online Learning

133

5.2 Key Findings of this Research

134

5.2.1 Conversational Dominance

136

5.2.2 Quality of Discussion Content

139

5.2.3 Efficiency of Conversational Medium

141

5.3 On Synchronicity

142

5.4 Implications for Designers

143

5.5 Future Directions

145

Appendix A: Discussion Topics and Aggregated Answers

149

A.1 Privacy and Blogs (Day 1)

149

A.2 Employees Accessing Private Information (Day 2)

161

A.2.1 Scenario 1

161

A.2.2 Scenario 2

168

A.3 Employee Monitoring (Day 3)

173