Özet:
This paper proposes a novel theoretical perspective on the nature of online
learning. Taking a socio-cultural perspective, an argument is offered for the
theorisation of peer to peer learning as a variety of ‘assisted performance’. Using
this theoretical lens, a case study is then offered which uses this model to frame an
analysis of the nature and occurrences of online exchanges between students, and
with tutors. The case study looks at two years of online discussion in a Master’s
programme in a United Kingdom university. The results suggest that looking for
examples of assisted performance in the online exchanges can offer insights into
the learning that can take place in online discussion and offers one way of
recognising meaningful online interaction, and therefore point to ways of
promoting such exchanges.
