Exploring Human Interaction in Online Self-Regulated Learning Through Danmaku Comments

Interaction is crucial for online self-regulated learning (OSRL) ability and learning outcomes. The absence of social interaction might lead to high dropout rates in online learning environments. Danmaku holds great potential to enhance online learning by fostering interaction. This study explores the motivations behind university students’ use of danmaku and its influence on their OSRL. Using a mixed methods approach through surveys and interviews with 100 university students from two universities, we found that danmaku promotes social interaction by fulfilling students’ information and entertainment needs. Additionally, engagement with danmaku supports self-regulated learning through reflection and responding strategies and enhances enjoyment by increasing self-efficacy in contributing to the online learning community. This study expands understanding of the role interactive tools like danmaku can play in enhancing social interaction and OSRL, and highlights the potential of danmaku to improve student engagement and reduce dropout rates for quality education.