Social Network Analysis in support of Distance Learning: Analysing interaction in discussion forums

Recently, there has been a growing use of LMS platforms to support e-learning or b-learning initiatives by training and educational institutions. It is therefore necessary to explore new methodologies for working with and analysing interaction in such environments. Analysing the collaborative dimension of activities carried out in the context of distance education, particularly those linked to communication established in online discussion forums, reveals the advantage of using methodologies for representing and analysing relational data, particularly those linked to Social Network Analysis. With this method, we are able to understand the structure of the work network formed, the changes it undergoes depending on the type of interaction, the position of each subject in the network, among other aspects. The aim of this book is to introduce Social Network Analysis as a fundamental analytical tool for developing a sense of online learning community and for designing diversified and efficient activity proposals.