Engendering an Online Community: Supporting Students on the Transition into University Life

Nolan, S. J.; Bruce, Megan; Leech, Steve

doi:10.1057/978-1-349-94969-4_8

Cited by 1 publication

(1 citation statement)

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“…Virtual learning environments (VLEs), such as Blackboard, typically offer some social features and provide opportunities for students to collaborate through discussion boards (Nolan et al, 2016; Osgerby, 2013). However, research with undergraduates demonstrates that students tend to engage extensively with general-use social platforms such as Facebook to connect outside of the VLE (Osgerby, 2013), and this may have long-term benefits for their adjustment to university (DeAndrea et al, 2012).…”

Section: Uses Of Social Mediamentioning

confidence: 99%

Buffering against academic loneliness: The benefits of social media-based peer support during postgraduate study

McLaughlin

Sillence

2018

Active Learning in Higher Education

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Although the support provided by social relationships may be essential to a successful student transition, the transition to postgraduate study has had little consideration from a social support perspective. The study described in this article investigated the role played by social support in postgraduate taught students’ adjustment to university, and how social media contributes to this support. Thematic analysis indicated that participants benefitted most from specialised support from peers dealing with similar academic challenges. Facebook groups showed potential as a platform for building supportive peer networks. However, the heightened visibility of communications on this platform led some participants towards Facebook Messenger as a medium for peer contact. The study suggested that, in order to meet postgraduates’ needs, institutions could ensure postgraduate students have sufficient opportunity for collaboration within their cohorts. In addition, while social media may aid this process, students’ individual communication preferences may inevitably influence their engagement with particular platforms.

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