“Switching to SIDE Mode”- COVID-19 and the Adaptation of Computer Mediated Communication Learning in Kenya
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Date
2020
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Publisher
Research Association for Interdisciplinary Studies
Abstract
ABSTRACT
The global onset of the novel Coronavirus in December 2019, and rising infections early
2020 forced institutions of higher education to quickly shift to virtual learning. In Kenya, Computer
Mediated Communication (CMC) - a real time interaction of humans through computer devices became a
quick and necessary mode to facilitate continuous learning. CMC replaced face-to-face classroom
interactions, exhibiting challenges and creative opportunities. Through qualitative research methods, I
draw teaching and learning experiences of CMC from two private Kenyan Universities (Daystar and St.
Paul's). This paper argues that the social identity model of de-individuation or SIDE mode (Spears and
Reicher 1995), enhances effective computer mediated interactions. Findings show that in COVID-19
scenarios, tutors were forced to deal with an emotionally charged group of online students. Some students
lacked stable Internet, or their parents were struggling financially and unable to sustain the technological
needs. There were students who experienced stress related anxieties. These psycho-social contexts provide
a plausible scenario to probe the social identity model of de-individuation effects (SIDE mode). The
model is widely used in social-psychology to explain apparent breakdown of normative behavior among
groups. In this case, the COVID-19 scenario pushed learners and tutors to adapt and deal with effects of
CMC, at the same time manage learning anxieties. In this paper, I argue that in using CMC, tutors adapt
less formal approaches that include adjusting to informal non-structured communication.
Description
Journal Article
Keywords
Computer Mediated Communication, COVID-19 Learning Adaptations, SIDE Mode
Citation
Ouma, Radoli, Lydia., (2020)., “Switching to SIDE Mode”- COVID-19 and the Adaptation of Computer Mediated Communication Learning in Kenya.,Research Association for Interdisciplinary Studies.
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