Mapping Discussion Roles: From the Classroom to the Online Discussion Board

摘要

In this study, we look at beginning to explore roles and how individuals fill those roles in face-to-face and online social networks. The long term goal of the research is to be able to map both the roles and the individuals as they move between the two types of social networks. The mapping of this migration will provide community administrators with tools and knowledge that can be used to better support the community members. This paper presents the results of a pilot study that explored the feasibility of an approach to carry out this research. A learning environment is studied that utilizes a mixed mode approach, using both the classroom and online bulletin boards. Through the use of observation, content analysis, surveys and interviews, classroom and online roles are discovered and the beginnings of a meaningful mapping of those roles and how individuals fill them is uncovered. Finally our modified approach is presented as the full study is getting underway.