ARGUMENTATIVE WRITING & CRITICAL THINKING-ENGL F001A

The Importance of Interactive Discussions in Online Learning Environments

Unlike traditional passive methods of learning where most students engaged in face-to-face classroom interaction, online interactive learning method has revolutionized our education system by enabling students to have an immersive learning experience. The idea of creating online learning environments that can offer interactive discussions to learners remains a game changer because it is one of the best ways learners could engage in critical thinking processes and allow them to see the relevance of their learning. Apart from sharing ideas, insights, views perspectives, and solutions, it is evident that most of the activities during interactive discussions motivate learners to think critically and improve both the competitive spirit and learners’ problem-solving skills (Onyema et. al., 4854). Learners also tend to improve in knowledge retention, have a deeper understanding of information presented in class, and develop reading, writing, and critical thinking skills.

Replacing face-to-face traditional classrooms with online interactive discussions has fostered active participation, enhanced engagement, and improved knowledge retention. The aspect of engaging learners fully in classwork or activities has been a big challenge to some instructors and that is why most education systems have opted for online module learning. We have seen institutions trying to create a conducive learning environment in traditional classrooms but this is yet to meet the expectation of most learners. Meaning that despite institutions offering reliable resources in traditional classrooms, many students still prefer online interactive discussions and this has increased student engagement and confidence while expressing their views and ideas freely. For instance, by incorporating interactive elements in online classes has motivated learners to actively engage and contribute effectively during discussions (Onyema et. al., 4853). These elements include online quizzes, multimedia, games, and simulation which can be part of adaptive exercises that engage and help students focus more on what they need to learn in class modules (Lunsford & Ruszkiewicz 18). The main aim is to enable learners to have better knowledge absorption.

Apart from enhancing engagement, online learning environments tend to improve knowledge retention. Retaining knowledge has been a challenge in passive learning methods because students do not have adequate self-space activities. In most cases, students in face-to-face traditional classrooms do not have time to interact with the teacher or ask questions. Online interactive learning discussions do offer learners a chance to have immediate feedback from their teachers. Students also meet their instructors online via zooms and this has created interactive space and personalized learning paths therefore helping learners retain and reinforce information effectively. Compared to face-to-face traditional classrooms, interactive online learning offers a motivational environment that is flexible and accessible. Meaning that learners can have their discussions anywhere and anytime. This environment of allowing students to learn at their own pace encourages an interactive form of learning and sharing ideas hence increasing accessibility to education (Onyema et. al., 4856). For people with constraints such as physical disabilities, geographic location, and work commitments, online learning offers an environment that can help them have interactive discussions.

In my conclusion, we have other importance of interactive discussions in online learning environments including deeper understanding and collaborative learning opportunities. The interactive learning modules presented online can make students excel and have a deeper understanding of some of the complex issues in society. As learners discuss and share ideas, especially in groups, it encourages them to actively explore and analyze information either through simulations, real-world scenarios, or virtual experiments such as zoom sessions. Many learners are encouraged to engage in online learning because while experiencing interactive discussions, they do benefit from collaborative learning opportunities. This has in turn set a framework for peer collaboration, interaction, teamwork, and dialogue (Onyema et. al., 4856). Interactive discussions act as good platforms where learners engage in problem-solving exercises and improve their communication skills. Learners are motivated to engage in interactive discussions because apart from enhancing engagement and improving knowledge retention, it provides opportunities for exchanging ideas, insights, views, perspectives, and solutions. Therefore enhancing their reading, writing, and critical thinking skills. 

Works Cited

Lunsford, Andrea A., and John J. Ruszkiewicz. Everything’s an Argument. Bedford/St. Martin’s, 2016.

Onyema, Edeh Michael, et al. “Online discussion forum as a tool for interactive learning and communication.” International Journal of Recent Technology and Engineering 8.4 (2019): 4852-4859. file:///C:/Users/USER1/Downloads/Online_Discussion_Forum_as_a_Tool_for_In.pdf