White and Non-White Racial/Ethnic Differences in Attitudes for Online Class Interactive Participation in Discussion Boards: A Study from Two Class Sections at One University

Joshua Fogel

Joshua Fogel

Brooklyn College, USA

Volume 10: 2015, pp. 177-188; ABSTRACT

Online classes often have a discussion board section that can include interactive content. This study from two class sections at one university compares white (n=17) and non-white (n=30) racial/ethnic group responses about interactive components in discussion boards. Non-whites had greater positive interest attitudes than whites that an interactive component for discussion boards should be required as part of an online class and also that an interactive component for discussion boards makes an online class more interesting. Also, whites had a greater disinterest attitude than non-whites where an interactive component for discussion boards was considered a waste of time. Instructors teaching online classes in business schools with both white and non-white students should use an interactive discussion board component as an optional approach. It is not recommended to make an interactive discussion board component a required approach as there is a risk of alienating many white students who perceive it as a waste of time.

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