Document Type : Research Paper

Authors

• mahtab Asgari ¹
• mohamadjavad liaghatdar ²
• azam Esfijani ¹
• leila heshmatifar ³

¹ Faculty of Education & Psychology, University of Isfahan, Azadi Square, Isfahan, Iran

² Department of Curriculum Planning, Department of Educational Sciences, Faculty of Educational Sciences and Psychology, University of Isfahan

³ PhD Student of Curriculum, Faculty of Educational Sciences and Psychology, University of Isfahan

Abstract

Introduction
The challenges inherent in online learning environments, such as feelings of isolation and alienation, are often overlooked. This highlights the need for special attention to fostering a sense of presence in these settings. Specifically Teaching techniques used by educators play a key role in enhancing the learning experience and strengthening students' sense of presence. Consequently, refining and optimizing these techniques can significantly contribute to improving presence and mitigating the challenges of its creation in online settings.
Method
This research used a mixed-methods approach to investigation and validate teaching techniques aimed at creating a sense of presence in online learning environments. Initially, Data for investigation the teaching techniques were collected through content analysis of documents and semi-structured interviews with experts in the field. Data collection continued until informational saturation was achieved, with 25 documents reviewed and 14 interviews conducted. The findings were formulated into a questionnaire, which, after establishing its validity and reliability, was distributed among 83 faculty members and students from various disciplines and levels at Isfahan University through purposeful and convenient sampling for validation purposes.
Results
The questionnaire results, with a credibility score above 0.80, were confirmed by both faculty and student groups. The findings indicated that, from the perspective of both groups, confidentiality, privacy protection, educational support, and updating online instructors, as well as starting classes with appropriate topics and dedicating a session to getting to know the students, are among the most critical techniques for creating a sense of presence, recognized with a credibility level above 0.85. Furthermore, Key techniques for enhancing presence included:
-Creating intimacy with learners;
- Using a simple and friendly tone;
- Addressing students by name;
- Referring to students' messages;
- Starting classes with non-academic topics;
- Utilizing emojis;
- Sending congratulatory or condolence messages.
Discussion
The findings of this research can help instructional designers and educators create more engaging and effective online learning environments by focusing on techniques that foster interaction and personal connection.

Keywords

• Sense of Presence
• Online Education
• Teaching techniques

Main Subjects

• Curriculum Development