THE USE OF ONLINE DISCUSSION FORUMS TO FOSTER CRITICAL THINKING AND WRITING SKILLS IN B2 STUDENTS
Keywords:
online learning platforms, asynchronous dialogue, argumentation skills, academic writing development, B2 proficiency, collaborative learning, digital pedagogy, discourse competence, reflective learning, EFL communication.Abstract
The integration of online discussion forums into language learning has emerged as a powerful means of strengthening both critical thinking and writing abilities among B2-level students. These digital platforms offer structured yet flexible learning spaces where learners engage in analytical dialogue, negotiate meaning, and refine their communicative strategies. Because forum participation unfolds asynchronously, students benefit from extended time to process information, cross-check sources, and craft more deliberate, logically sound responses. This reflective environment promotes deeper engagement with course content and encourages learners to adopt inquiry-based thinking. Moreover, the requirement to express ideas in written form provides continual practice in shaping arguments, maintaining cohesion, and applying accurate linguistic structures. Interaction with peers exposes students to alternative viewpoints and authentic language use, thereby enhancing their pragmatic awareness and rhetorical skills. Forums also nurture learner autonomy by enabling students to take responsibility for initiating discussions, supporting claims with evidence, and monitoring the clarity of their written output. As educational contexts increasingly rely on blended and digital learning models, online discussion forums demonstrate strong potential as pedagogical tools for developing both cognitive and linguistic competence in B2 learners.
