Vol. 32 No. 1 (2017)
Research Brief

Study Protocol for a Scoping Review on Social Presence

David Mykota
University of Saskatchewan
Bio
Deighan Remoundos
University of Saskatchewan
Bio

Published 2017-06-28

Keywords

  • evidence synthesis,
  • higher education,
  • literature review,
  • online learning,
  • scoping review,
  • social presence.
  • ...More
    Less

How to Cite

Mykota, D., & Remoundos, D. (2017). Study Protocol for a Scoping Review on Social Presence. International Journal of E-Learning & Distance Education Revue Internationale Du E-Learning Et La Formation à Distance, 32(1). Retrieved from https://ijede.ca/index.php/jde/article/view/1021

Abstract

In the field of e-learning and distance education, there has been a significant amount of research activity surrounding the construct social presence. However, a scoping review on social presence has yet to be conducted. Therefore, the purpose of this brief review is to provide an overview of the research protocol developed for a scoping review of social presence. The methodology developed by Arksey and O’Malley for the conducting of scoping reviews will guide the study. It will include a search of six electronic databases followed by a two-stage screening process. Of those studies identified for inclusion, data will be extracted using a standardized form. For data pertaining to study characteristics a descriptive numerical analysis will occur. A qualitative content analysis will be undertaken for the qualitative data extracted. Results will be charted and mapped enabling the development of a conceptual framework and best practices in the development and application of social presence. Results of the scoping review once completed, will be discussed within the context of current literature along with the identification of research gaps, limitations, and recommendations for future research.

 

Résumé

Le champ du e-learning et de la formation à distance est le lieu de nombreuses activités de recherches portant sur la notion de la présence sociale. Cependant, aucun examen de la portée sur la présence sociale n’a encore été mené. Par conséquent, l’objectif de cette brève revue de littérature est d’offrir une vue d’ensemble du protocole de recherche développé dans le cadre d’un examen de la portée sur la présence sociale. La méthodologie développée par Arksey et O’Malley pour la conduite des examens de la portée guidera cette étude. Elle va comprendre une recherche portant sur six bases de données électroniques suivit par un processus de sélection en deux étapes. Les données des études retenues seront extraites en utilisant un formulaire standardisé. Les données relatives aux caractéristiques de l’étude feront quant à elles l’objet d’une analyse numérique descriptive. Une analyse qualitative de contenu sera mise en œuvre pour analyser les données qualitatives extraites. Les résultats seront cartographiés et présentés sous forme de graphiques favorisant le développement d’un cadre conceptuel et l’identification de bonnes pratiques dans le développement et l’application de la présence sociale. Une fois l’examen de la portée arrivé à terme, ses résultats seront discutés dans le contexte de la littérature actuelle allant de pair avec le pointage des lacunes et limites des recherches menées jusqu’à présent accompagné de recommandations pour celles à venir.

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