Topic models to support instructors in MOOC forums

This paper explores the potential of using naïve topic modeling to support instructors in navigating MOOC discussion forums. Categorizing discussion threads into topics can provide an overview of the discussion, improve navigation of the forum, and support replying to a representative sample of content related posts. We investigate four different approaches to using topic models to organize and present discussion posts, highlighting the strength and weaknesses of each approach to support instructors.