Analysis of Transitivity and Reciprocity in Online Distance Learning Networks

The goal of this research is to explore whether network structures common in social networks also emerge in online distance learning networks. We compare the observed values of reciprocity and transitivity in 95 online distance learning networks and 40 social networks with predictions of Random Graph models. All the networks tested exhibit reciprocities that significantly deviate from the predictions of the random graph models. All the online distance learning networks and some, but not all, of the social networks exhibit transitivity compatible with generalized random graph models. We provide possible explanations for these behaviors, based on the broadcast nature of the online distance learning networks, and practical implications for online collaborative learning.