Frequency, intensity and topicality in online learning: An exploration of the interaction dimensions that contribute to student satisfaction in online learning

This article analyzes dimensions of interaction that contribute to student satisfaction in Web-supported courses. Researchers examined chat logs and discussion board postings for eight graduate courses in fall 2000 at the Florida State University School of Information Studies, and conducted focus group interviews in spring 2001 with 14 online and local students. Interaction was examined along three dimensions: frequency, intensity and topicality (FIT). Of the eight courses, one received a FIT ranking of high, three received a FIT ranking of low, and four received a FIT ranking of medium. Dimensions of interaction contributing positively toward online learning in master's courses in library and information studies (LIS) were explored to help LIS educators design, develop, and implement online courses that are both more effective in their support of learning and more satisfying to students and instructors.