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Avatar-Based Group Discussions in Virtual Worlds: Facilitation, Communication Modalities, and Benefits of Participation (Book Chapter Enhancement)

Avatar-Based Group Discussions in Virtual Worlds: Facilitation, Communication Modalities, and Benefits of Participation (Book Chapter Enhancement)

Natalie Nussli (University of Applied Sciences and Arts Northwestern Switzerland (FHNW), Switzerland, Lucerne, Switzerland) and Kevin Oh (University of San Francisco, San Francisco, USA)
Copyright: © 2018 |Pages: 24
DOI: 10.4018/IJVPLE.2018010101
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Abstract

This article focuses on developing guidelines for the effective facilitation of avatar-based group discussions. This qualitative inquiry is guided by an investigation of (1) social affordances of avatar-based discussions, with an emphasis on social and physical presence, (2) strategies to help establish rapport with other avatars, and (3) the complexities of communication modalities (voice vs. text) in avatar-based discussions. The study also explores the benefits and challenges of participating in virtual discussions. The data originated from avatar-based discussion groups in Second Life moderated by expert hosts and co-hosts and were gathered through participant and non-participant observation. Guidelines for the effective moderation of avatar-based discussion groups are presented throughout the chapter, such as, creating a feeling of acceptance and non-judgment, communicating synchronously to support immediacy, demonstrating virtual sharing acts, using voice for humanized communication, showing social emotionality, and observing real-life social norms.
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Background

Social Affordances of Online Discussion Groups

Online discussion groups are a way to create social networks, share ideas, and seek advice (Ridings & Wasko, 2010). Discussions have been shown to be more effective than other methods of instruction for the goals of retention, application, problem-solving, attitude change, and motivation for future learning (McKeachie, 2002). The social affordances of virtual worlds are of particular relevance for the investigation of online discussion and support groups. To understand the concept of social affordances, it is essential to clarify the notion of presence in a virtual environment and how presence relates to the impact of avatar-based communication on users’ satisfaction with their virtual experience.

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