SOCIAL NETWORKING IN CROSS-PROGRAM COLLABORATION: A STUDY OF THE USE OF CON NECTYARD IN THE ONLINE CLASSROOM

This exploratory study sought to determine the nature of backchannel communications, identify the types of tools are most often employed, and to determine the efficacy and popularity of Connect Yard, a social media aggregation tool, within cross-program collaborative group communications. The findings include analysis and a discussion on the underlying reasons for social media use and perceived value of the tools in the regards to collaboration on assignments, clarification of assignment requirements, seeking or providing help with technology tools, socializing with others in the group, and seeking or providing emotional support. In addition, this paper considers implications for practical use of social media tools in the online classroom.