How interactive is a semantic network? concept maps and discourse in knowledge communities

Computer-mediated learning needs to be social too. Interactivity is a central construct for collaborative knowledge construction in online communities. We present an operationalized framework for measuring interactivity in online discussions, based on our view of interactivity as a socio-constructivist process. We hypothesize that the traditional design for online discussion platforms, with linear, chronologically threaded forums and bulletin boards, would result in less interactive behavioral patterns. We propose a semantic network topology to online discussions, which in turn reflects a social constructivist process. To that end, we developed Ligilo, an online discussion platform. Here, each discussion contribution and content item is expressed as a node in a semantic network of posts. We describe a field study comparing interactivity using threaded-based discussion and Ligilo's semantic, networked based discussion. Initial results indicate higher interactivity in content creation patterns, suggesting learning, motivation and sustainability for discussion and community.