Title: The complexity of text-based computer mediated communication: a system for automated representation of discussion threads' messages in asynchronous distance education fora

Authors: Kiriakos Patriarcheas; Michalis Xenos

Addresses: School of Sciences and Technology, Computer Science, Hellenic Open University, Parodos Aristotelous Str. 18, 26 335, Patras, Greece ' School of Sciences and Technology, Computer Science, Hellenic Open University, Parodos Aristotelous Str. 18, 26 335, Patras, Greece

Abstract: This paper presents a system development approach for automated interpretation of discussion threads' messages in asynchronous distance education fora by using the content category as unit of analysis. This system introduce as inputs discussion threads from distance education fora and outputs strings representing the messages of these threads according to concrete modelling based in a formal language.

Keywords: distance education; text-based communication; electronic forums; formal languages; classification; computer mediated communication; automated representation; discussion threads; message content category; modelling; online forums; online discussion.

DOI: 10.1504/IJIRD.2015.071090

International Journal of Innovation and Regional Development, 2015 Vol.6 No.3, pp.285 - 309

Received: 21 Mar 2014
Accepted: 07 Nov 2014
Published online: 12 Aug 2015 *

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