About the Social Presence Literacy Lab

Welcome to the Social Presence Literacy Lab (SPL2), led by Professor Dr. Tom Dyer, where we are dedicated to empowering educators with the knowledge and skills to create engaging and impactful online learning experiences. Our lab is at the forefront of research and innovation in social presence, exploring how technology-mediated interactions can foster meaningful connections and enhance student engagement in virtual classrooms. Whether you're an experienced educator seeking to refine your online teaching strategies or a newcomer eager to learn more about the latest advancements in online pedagogy, we invite you to explore our programs, resources, and research initiatives. Join us on this journey to harness the power of social presence and transform the landscape of online education. The Social Presence Literacy Lab (SPL2) aims to enhance faculty members' knowledge, application, and evaluation of social presence within the online learning environment. Social presence, as defined by Short, Williams, and Christie (1976), Anderson et al. (2001), and Whiteside (2017), is crucial for fostering a sense of connectedness and promoting active engagement in the virtual classroom In an era where AI is rapidly transforming the educational landscape, one thing remains constant: good teaching is inherently social. While AI offers new tools and possibilities, it does not replace the fundamental elements that define effective education. As AI continues to evolve, the human element in education becomes even more crucial. Social presence helps you build the relationships and trust that are at the heart of effective teaching. It’s not just about keeping up with technology; it’s about using your unique human skills to create learning experiences that AI can’t replicate.

Visit the Social Presence Literacy Lab (SP2L) here

If you have questions or concerns, would like to talk to us about these presentations, please reach out to [email protected]