Exploring The Phases of Computer-Mediated Communication in Online Learning

Abstract

Nowadays, the advent of the internet as well as the Information Communication and Technology (ICT) has greatly influenced the way knowledge is transmitted. One of them is through Computer-Mediated Communication (CMC). It is referred to as an innovative mode of communication. The purpose of this study is to explore the phases of CMC in online learning through understanding the influences of the interpersonal phase, hyper personal phase and impersonal phase. Besides, the study also examines the relationship between the different phases of engagement in an online class. This research is a quantitative descriptive study using survey methods conducted online and the sample was obtained from one of the public universities in Malaysia. The instrument of survey was divided into 4 main sections. Based on the survey conducted towards 146 students with regard to their experience in online learning, it was found that the level of interaction between learner-to-learner, learner-to-instructor as well as learner-to-content varied from medium to high. The findings on the relationship showed that there exists association between all types of engagement.