Marina Stock McIsaac

The Relationship of Social Presence and Interaction in Online Classes

The purpose of this research was to study social presence in the online learning environment. Dimensions of social presence were examined using quantitative and qualitative methods. Three dimensions of social presence-social context, online communication, and interactivity-emerged as important elements in establishing a sense of community among online learners. The privacy factor was also an important element in the level of comfort for students online. An increase in the level of online interaction occurs with an improved level of social presence. This can be fostered by considering characteristics of the learners, by selecting the appropriate computer-mediated communication medium, and by applying appropriate instructional elements to course design.

Student and Teacher Perceptions of Interaction in Online Computer‐Mediated Communication

Abstracts English: This presentation looks at recent research on student interactions and student course evaluations in 6 web‐based courses taught at Arizona State University between 1996 and 1998

How Research in Distance Education Can Affect Practice

Abstract Distance education is a growing and developing method, worldwide, of learning. The article looks at this development and the technologies and telecommunications that are being used. It also looks at the research and the distances which always exist in educational relationships. The question of interaction is also of importance in distance education, as is that of independence, learner control and the social context in which study takes place. Evaluation, with comments from students is also presented, as are the issues which face us now.

Is there a mobile social presence

Mobile learning environments are human networks that afford the opportunity to participate in creative endeavors, social networking, organize/reorganize social contents, and manage social acts at anytime, anywhere through mobile technologies. Social acts that elicit identities, develop awareness, cement relationships, ensure connections, and promote interactions are necessary for interactive learning. This study was to understand mobile social presence and how it influences social interaction and relates to online and network social presences. It concluded that mobile social presence is similar to virtual social presence in a way; however, it is different from online and network social presences in the aspects of personalized control, and location-free digital interaction. Mobile social presence is defined as the degree of enriching social context-awareness, managing location-based communication, personalized multi-layered interactivity, and optimized digital and social identities to other intellectuals through digital mobile technologies.

Networks for Knowledge: The Turkish Electronic Classroom in the Twenty-First Century

Abstract The article looks at how Turkey has developed since 1923 and, in particular, at the state of education, which is very much based on memory work and learning by rote. It looks at how standards in Turkey are rising, and how technologies can assist the education process to be more creative, and more based on problem solving and the application of information in new and different contexts.

A cycle of online education ecstasy/agony: To MOOC or not to MOOC

MOOC stands for Massive Open Online Course, which is catching a lot of attention in higher educations. This attention particularly is popularized by mass media on the comments from innovative, disruptive, educational evolution, come the revolution, the campus tsunami, faducation, False promise, to hype, shallow, McDonaldization of global higher education. What do MOOCs mean to higher education? Should we offer MOOCs? What are the critical instructional designs for MOOCs?

Desktop Publishing: The Effects of Computerized Formats on Reading Speed and Comprehension

This study investigated the effects of two desktop publishing features, run-around and wrap-around text, on students’ reading speed and comprehension. A secondary purpose was to determine the feasibility of developing guidelines for placing graphics within electronic text. Ninety students participated in the study. Four sets of reading materials with identical content were administered. The text of the reading materials was varied by format: run-around, wrap-around, single and double column. Results indicated a significantly faster reading speed and better comprehension for wrap-around text (text fitted tightly around the graphic) than for run-around text (text boxed around the graphic). There was no significant difference for column format.

International organizations: Roadmap for collaboration

A remarkable collaboration has evolved over the past half century of international organizations dedicated to the wise use of technology in education. The road toward collaborative efforts has not always been easy, especially given the changing political, economic, social, and educational challenges. This presentation examines selected organizations and their ongoing role in bringing together diverse international entities toward a common goal, education on a global scale. The result has been a series of conferences, publications, seminars, and personnel exchanges over the years, transcending cultural differences, languages, and locations, extolling unique benefits that have accrued for all participants. What follows is the story of one mans journey across seven continents, multiple languages, diverse arrays of transport, housing, cuisine, beverages, and customs, acclimating to all where possible, adjusting to multiple stimulae. The tale then concludes by sharing recent experiences and a unique set of attributes involving three differing cultures requiring finesse, diplomacy, and fortitude to accommodate each in their own way. The session will conclude with a panel discussion by Professors Pan, McIsaac, Doyle, and Tu. Both Professors Cornell and McIsaac will be communicating via Skype from Florida and Arizona respectively.

ICEM & SIIE 2011 Joint Conference “Old meets new - media in education” – A review

The ICEM & SIIE 2011 conference was held at the Department of Education of the University of Aveiro and was organized by the University of Aveiro (Portugal) – a member of the European Consortium of Innovative Universities. In addition to international experts in the field of ICT in education, the event brought together 164 participants who represented some 30 different countries. The final evaluation by the organization committee and the external evaluation team determined that the conference was highly successful both academically and professionally. The preconference sessions during the preceding Media Day, were especially successful, with nearly as many participants as the conference itself. ICEM & SIIE 2011 aimed at gathering researchers, teachers and other professionals, at national and international levels, around a focal topic that was designed to trigger and center the discussion on the old/new duality of media in education. Participants were invited to discuss:

Is there a Fulbright in your future

Would you benefit from teaching in a foreign country? Does your research agenda include comparative or international research? Do you have a personal desire to learn more about other cultures and to share your vision of the United States with others? Then you may be interested in the Fulbright program! Established as a U.S. State Department initiative in 1946, the Fulbright program aims to increase mutual understanding among peoples of the U.S. and other countries through the exchange of faculty. Each year, over 800 U.S citizens are sent abroad to represent the United States in classrooms, laboratories, and offices all over the world. New Mexico State University strongly supports participation in the Fulbright program as a part of its internationalization efforts. Fulbright financial and logistical support facilitate the work of each Fulbright scholar. It is one of the true win-win programs for NMSU faculty. In this workshop you will gain an understanding of Fulbright benefits, the types of grants available, application tips, and a discussion of grants available in your discipline. People who complete this workshop will be well prepared to begin the application process.