Social Presence
Elements used to promote a social presence in eLearning may include but are not limited to head and body movements, verbal and text communications, and simultaneous representation of multiple users or agents. What other elements can promote a social presence in an eLearning environment? Why is social presence important in an eLearning environment?
Interactive learning games that ask participants to answer polls or questions and respond in a synchronous way with instant feedback or role playing can increase social connections. In addition, some game designs offer participants a chance to create avatars. There has to be of course a level of limits so that the learning components will be emphasized. Interacting in various ways, while learning content assists in creating more social connections in the gaming and simulation program.
Phyllis Gooden
Freya,
Good response. Online does not necessarily mean that learners are on their own and the social presence helps to show the learner that he or she is not alone.
Dr. Karen Drage
Online learning and gaming can be intimidating. Having a social presence in an instructor role shows the learner that he or she is not alone. It provides a level of encouragement and risk-taking for the learner. The learner feels safe in participating and knows that he or she will be rewarded for his or her efforts.
Social presence is important so that the learners and teachers do not feel a loss of "individuality" and feel like just another 'username.' It can also help students and instructors avoid the 'on an island,' feeling where they feel disconnected from one another.
Another element that can be used to promote social presence in eLearning is an 'achievements system' which includes an 'achievements list' and 'achievement notifications' in the form of badges or icons that are conspicuously placed on a users character or profile.
