Re-evaluation of community of inquiry model with its metacognitive presence construct

Abstract

Among the discussion-content analytical tools in the field of e-learning research, the community of inquiry (CoI) model is extensively applied and continuously improved by its users. This model investigates the types of elements that are manifested through inquiry-based learning processes in online discussions. They are social, cognitive, teaching and metacognitive presences. These elements are essential for meaningful student interactions to take place in online learning environments. In particular, the metacognitive presence construct of the CoI model discovers the students’ ability of self and co-regulation of learning in an online learning environment. However, the metacognitive presence construct of the CoI model has not been evaluated along with the other components of the model. Therefore, in this paper the CoI model was re-evaluated to determine its reliability in analysing discussions in online courses on information technology related subjects. The evaluation is conducted with four online courses designed and developed for a distance learning programme in Sri Lanka. The paper discusses the modifications that were needed to make the model more applicable for conducting discussion-content analysis in similar types of online learning environments, and reports on the results of the final evaluation. Furthermore, the findings of the study imply that the CoI framework needs to be improved to properly enclose the metacognitive presence component. In spite of this, the study adds points to the CoI model supporting for its well applicability and reliability in analysing online discussion content in information technology related courses.