Effects of visualization of social interaction based on social presence theory: Formative evaluation of a prototype system

Abstract

This study aims to develop and evaluate a CMC tool based on social presence. The tool consists of three parts: social presence mapping, chat display, and concept mapping, which combine to enhance social presence and encourage learning behavior, such as active discussion. Evaluated in terms of social presence and contribution to learning, each function of this system is shown to have a positive effect on learning. However, the results also highlight the necessity of developing a further function to enhance awareness of social presence.