Validation of a Modified Instrument: Using Social Network Analysis to Measure Social Presence

• In Event: Online Teaching and Learning: Research Methodologies

Abstract

As a contributing factor, Social Presence was introduced as a concept that relates to the quality of e-learning. Several studies were done on measuring social presence in an online learning environment, indicating that social presence affected positive outcome in students’ learning. Although certain social presence measurement instruments were developed, most of the instruments are limited to the form of Likert Scale. The authors modified a measurement in which shows the possible way of translating social presence coding as a Social Network Analysis term. The purpose of this study is to explain and show several methods to validate the modified measurement. This study is significant to the scholars and instructors who are interested in enhancing social presence in online learning environment.

Authors

• Jea H. Choi, Purdue University

• Johannes Strobel, Purdue University