eCAF: A new tool for the conversational analysis of electronic communication

Abstract

Electronic communication is characteristically concerned with 'the message' (eM), those who send them (S), and those who receive and read them (R). This relationship could be simplified into the equation eM = S + R. When this simple equation is applied to electronic communication, several elements are added that make this straightforward act of sending and receiving a message more complex. These new elements are characteristics such as asynchronicity, unknown senders and readers, non-linear text and the absence of non-verbal cues. What is apparent is that the complexity of these messages lies in their impact outside the online environment. It is clear from the messages themselves that the information is being applied to real, authentic contexts and is not limited to the online environment. Conversational analysis frameworks must attempt to understand this complexity if the meaning of electronic messages is to be understood. This paper proposes a new conversational analysis framework, the electronic conversational analysis framework (eCAF), for use with electronic communication. The eCAF has been designed as a new methodological tool that incorporates the unique virtual/real worlds that individuals participate in and links these two locations to the phases of electronic discussions. Electronic messages and researchThe use of computer-mediated text messages in research has been well documented ). Text-based messages commonly used in computermediated communication (CMC) have unique characteristics. While they are written texts, they do not share the same features as traditional written communication (Henri, 1992) and contain more characteristics of spoken communication. Conversation is divided into threads, with responses to different threads not following logically after one another. This does not inhibit the communicative experience but is merely a distinguishing characteristic of the medium. McCreary (1990) stated that the written word demands an exactness and coherence of thought, indicating that text-based communication results in more well planned and structured interactions. The message itself can be regarded as a complete communicative unit (Henri, 1992) which has its own meaning and structure.Research has concluded that user participation and motivation increases (Harasim, 1990;McCreary, 1990) when communicating via text-based messages. Harasim (1990) also reported that there is a high level of interactivity in such communication, which in turn encourages collaboration and thus influences the learning process. The asynchronous capabilities of text-based CMC allows for more thought, reflection and processing of information (Hara et al, 2000). These two factors indicate that electronic messages are potentially a rich source of data for researchers.

Text Based Computer-Mediated Communication: A System for Automated Interpretation of Discussion Threads in Distance Education Fora by Using Formal Languages

“…These two factors indicate that electronic messages are potentially a rich source of data for researchers. Text-based messages commonly used in CMC have unique characteristics [6]. A large part of the complexity related to the analysis of human communication through the exchange of electronic messages in asynchronous discussion fora is due to the fact that while they are written texts they do not share the same features as traditional written communication and contain more characteristics of spoken communication [7].…”