A Literature Review on the Use of Emoticons to Support Online Learning

• In Event: 60.085 - Poster Session 11
  In Poster Session: 60.085-6 - Online Teaching and Learning SIG Poster Session 1

Abstract

Effective use of electronically-mediated communication (EMC) technologies is fundamental to digital literacy and, therefore, a high-demand competency in business and society. However, the use of EMC technologies can be challenging in educational contexts because they tend to rely on text-based formats where the meaning and intent may be lost in translation from thought to posted message. Therefore, online educators value techniques that have the potential to improve the quality and effectiveness of text-based communication. One such technique is the use of emoticons to represent emotional and personality nuances present in face-to-face communication. In this session, we present an overview of the emoticon literature, and share potential research directions and instructional recommendations for online educators.

Authors

• Joanna C. Dunlap, University of Colorado - Denver

• Devshikha Bose, Boise State University

• Patrick R. Lowenthal, Boise State University

• Cindy S. York, Northern Illinois University

• Michael Atkinson, Boise State University

• Jim Murtagh, Boise State University