Collaborare online per migliorare il metodo di studio: una ricerca con matricole universitarie

A proper study method is defined by a self-regulated approach to study (Zimmerman, 2008, Boekaerts et al, 2005). It requires the use of a variety of strategies and methods, suitable motivation, proper achievement goals and metacognitive reflection; the student has to be familiar with and to use goals driving his learning activity (Albanese et al, 2008; 2007; 2004; Pintrich, 1999). In collaborative learning activities the learners autonomously self-regulate their learning process, manage time and strategies and preserve their motivation (Choi et al. 2005; Narciss et al. 2007). Does the cooperation promote the development of Self-regulation competencies? How metacognitive reflection can influence this development? 57 first year university students uses web forum online to go into more depth about Developmental Psychology Course’s contents; then they discuss in a report their evaluation of advantages and limits of the activity. All participants and a control group complete after the activity the E-learning Questionnaire (Antonietti et al., 2004). Analyses of the answers (ANOVA) given by students who attend the online activities compared to the control group show an improvement in self-regulated learning and the perception of less negative effects of e-learning. The content analysis of evaluation reports outlined a more strategic approach and more motivation to study after the participation to the online activities