Building a Tool for Analyzing Interactions in a Virtual Learning Environment

摘要

This article presents the development of the framework Social Map, implemented in a virtual learning environment (VLE). The tool aims at mapping the interactions of the participants of a course in the form of graphs or sociograms. The methodology used was descriptive, theoretical, and practical and the graphs generated from the interactions of two undergraduate classes and one continuing education course were analyzed. Data from the Social Map, and a punctual analysis of the interactions and relationships, enabled the teachers to rethink educational activities in VLEs. Based on the indicators obtained from the map, the aim is to build more consistent teaching practices for activities in the virtual, especially concerning the social aspects. It is also a way to highlight peculiarities hitherto little-discussed regarding distance education.