Oral interactions of an online writing group: Do they provide support?

Abstract

This study examines the types of oral comments from a reviewer’s as well as an author’s perspective offered within an online writing group (OWG) that met during the confinement due to the COVID-19 pandemic. The purpose was to zoom in on the members’ interactions to have a broader perspective of how these exchanges could provide support through different types of oral comments. Results indicate that, although the members with more discipline and writing experience provided the highest number of reviewer comments, as could be expected, the positive manner in which these comments were given made a difference. Additionally, less experienced members shared their own expertise and gave support after sustained participation. On the other hand, towards one year of interaction, the support given through the reviewers’ comments helped participants not only to accept feedback but more frequently to verbalise their plans to improve their texts, engaging in reflection and richer exchanges.