The Evolution of Social Presence: A Network Analysis Exploration

• In Event: Spotlighting Presence Within Online Learning Environments

Abstract

Using a network analysis approach, this study investigates learners’ social presence evolution in students based on students’ self-reported levels of social presence and their interpersonal relationships over three consecutive courses. We found that the number of interpersonal relationships and perceived social presence increased over time. Yet, individual changes in social presence subconstructs do not reflect the overall trend. Small network structural analysis shows that the directed line configuration A⟶B⟶C was preferred but that cyclical structures were absent. This finding implies that students are more prompt to serve as bridges between peers rather than forming closed groups or reciprocating interpersonal relations. Understanding learners’ networks opens the door to examining which communication configurations are more effective in online learning.

Authors

• Daniela Castellanos-Reyes, North Carolina State University
  Presenting Author

• Jennifer C. Richardson, Purdue University
  Presenting Author