Reconceptualizing the community of inquiry framework: An exploratory analysis

Abstract

Constructs requiring additional conceptualization within the Community of Inquiry framework for online learning include the self- and co-regulatory processes students bring to online learning. This paper extends previous efforts to advance the framework by addressing this gap. Quantitative content analysis and social network analysis were used with online discussions in a doctoral course to identify qualities of the discourse. The analysis focused on the three original presences of the framework (social, teaching, and cognitive presences) and learning presence, a recently proposed addition to the framework. First, frequencies of all four presences were calculated to report patterns in the discussions. Next, correlations were computed to investigate which presences correspond with the modes of critical thinking described in cognitive presence. Finally, students' positions of influence and prestige were analyzed in relation to their expressions of the four forms of presence. Findings raise questions about the framework's scope and point toward its reconceptualization.