Impacts of social presence on user interaction with learning support systems
by Jinwei Cao, Janna M. Crews
International Journal of Knowledge and Learning (IJKL), Vol. 5, No. 2, 2009

Abstract: This research studies the impact of social presence on user interaction with learning support systems. Two methods of user interaction, virtual interaction and e-mail-based interaction are investigated. In a field experiment conducted in a real educational setting we ask, ''Which features are more critical for achieving (a) highly satisfying interactions and (b) effective learning: the timely feedback and rich media provided by virtual interaction or the high social presence provided by dynamic online interaction with human instructors?'' Both quantitative and qualitative results indicate that virtual interaction has lower social presence and results in lower user satisfaction with the interaction than e-mail-based interaction; however, there were no significant differences in user satisfaction with the learning process or actual learning performance. Potential exists for improving the social presence of virtual interaction and applying virtual interaction as a satisfying, yet cost-effective form of interaction within learning support systems. Based on our findings, we suggest a three level strategy for incorporating interaction into the design and implementation of learning support systems. Depending on the characteristics of the learning situation, virtual interaction, e-mail-based interaction and/or face-to-face interaction are advised.

Online publication date: Sun, 16-Aug-2009

The full text of this article is only available to individual subscribers or to users at subscribing institutions.

 
Existing subscribers:
Go to Inderscience Online Journals to access the Full Text of this article.

Pay per view:
If you are not a subscriber and you just want to read the full contents of this article, buy online access here.

Complimentary Subscribers, Editors or Members of the Editorial Board of the International Journal of Knowledge and Learning (IJKL):
Login with your Inderscience username and password:

Username:        Password:          Forgotten your password?

Want to subscribe?
A subscription gives you complete access to all articles in the current issue, as well as to all articles in the previous three years (where applicable). See our Orders page to subscribe.

If you still need assistance, please email subs@inderscience.com