Implementing online discussion boards to enhance professional skills and news reading habits in accounting students

Edward Tello, Brett Considine, Kristian Rotaru and Dennis Fehrenbacher

Accounting Education, 2026, vol. 35, issue 2, 137-169

Abstract: This study investigates the impact of a teaching and learning activity using news articles on fostering professional skills (including critical thinking, collaboration, and openness to learning). In this activity, an Asynchronous Online Discussion Board (AODB) was used as a medium to facilitate learning. Implemented in two postgraduate accounting courses over two academic years, the AODB activity required students to engage with relevant business news, make a meaningful contribution, and interact with their peers. A mixed-method approach, involving a survey of 231 students and 22 semi-structured interviews, was used to assess the effectiveness of the activity. The results show that the activity significantly enhanced engagement, critical thinking, and collaborative learning, with critical thinking emerging as the predominant skill developed. Additionally, students demonstrated an increased frequency of reading business news, reflecting the integration of lifelong learning habits. This research contributes to the literature by offering a practical and scalable approach for accounting educators globally to develop both technical and non-technical skills, addressing the growing demands of the profession in a digitalised, global business environment. The study also emphasises the importance of innovative teaching methods that can be adapted to diverse educational contexts.

Date: 2026
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DOI: 10.1080/09639284.2024.2419578

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