Social Anxiety in Digital Learning Environments: An International Perspective

• In Event: Marriott Roundtable Session Five
  In Roundtable Session: The Role of Affect and the Self in Online Learning (Table 7)

Abstract

Research focused on digital learning environments identified various challenges for learners, such as technical problems, lack of community, motivation, self-regulation, self-efficacy, or social anxiety. This international survey study investigates students’ social anxiety at four different higher education institutions. Findings indicate that social anxiety exists in higher education digital learning environments and differs across cultural contexts and gender. The data suggests that it is worth tertiary educators pausing to consider the role that social anxiety may be playing in reducing interactions within online units. Additional research is required to establish causes of social anxiety in digital learning environments and develop strategies to minimize its effect.

Authors

• Dirk Ifenthaler, University of Mannheim
  Presenting Author

• Muhittin Sahin, University of Mannheim
  Non-Presenting Author

• Martin Cooper
  Non-Presenting Author

• Linda Daniela
  Non-Presenting Author