Optimizing Participation with Helpers to Enhance Interaction in a Blended Learning Environment

Abstract

This paper aims to design and develop a working prototype of an online platform for blended learning. This platform focuses on enhancing students’ online participation through prosocial behavior elements, specifically ‘helping’. This study follows the design and developmental research structure, with an innovative take on the design approach. This study utilizes the concept of Helpers found in an organic online community of practice to enhance participation between students in the blended learning environment. Results showed that the combination of social elements embedded in the platform’s design and the concept of Helpers helps increase participation among students in a blended learning environment. Furthermore, an interesting observation when the non-Helpers began to take up the role and help others signaled that the concept is fluid rather than strict. This observation potentially opens more opportunities for further discussions and exploration of Helpers’ role in a formal online learning environment.