Building Community Through Discussion Forums in an Online Accelerated MLIS Program: Graduate Student Perspectives

Researchers have emphasized the importance of building a sense of community in online learning, with discussion forums serving as a popular tool to support this goal. This study examines graduate students’ perceptions of using discussion forums to foster community in an asynchronous, accelerated online Master of Library and Information Studies program at a public university in the Northeast United States. A total of 71 students completed the Classroom Community Scale Short Form, along with additional open-ended survey questions. Statistical and content analyses were conducted, including cross-tab analyses by students’ stage in the program (early, mid-point, and near completion). Findings suggest that while most students generally dislike discussion forum activities, their sense of community increases over time in the program. Informality, instructor engagement, and the design of forum activities appear to be key factors in promoting a stronger sense of community. This study is relevant as accelerated online programs continue to grow in popularity. Understanding how to effectively build a sense of community in a condensed time frame can inform the practices of instructors and course designers, ultimately benefiting online students.