Concepts to consider when studying computer-mediated communication and online learning

This paper presents a conceptual framework for studying interaction in online environments. The theoretical underpinnings of the framework will be presented as well as the results from studies that led to the development and refinement of the framework will be discussed. This framework is based on symbolic interactionist ideas and extensive research in the areas of computer-mediated communication and distance education. The framework consists of the following categories: context, learner control, social presence, structure, feedback, dialogue, and interaction. The categories of the conceptual framework are characterized by a reciprocal determinism, and they are all parts of a broader system. The implications of this framework and the research that will be presented will be discussed in detail as they relate to the design and study of online learning environments.