Promoting social networks among Computer Science students

The main scientific aim of this study was to investigate how Computer Science students regarded their social networks among study colleagues. The study was conducted at the Research Lab for Educational Technologies (University of Vienna) in order to find connecting factors for improving students' networks by means of curricular design as well as in single courses. Social Networks drawings and accompanying detailed descriptions provided by students were analyzed according to network analysis measures and set into relation with qualitative content analyses. Additionally qualitative interviews on how course instructors can foster social networks among students were conducted. Empirical results show that university courses provide good opportunities to build networks among students. As expected, students are more likely to experience a supporting network if they have more contacts as well as stronger ties to those colleagues. Furthermore, our results clearly indicate that virtual communication via e- mail or chat plays a significant role in maintaining contacts among study colleagues. Finally, there is reflected the influence of students' habits to communicate via new media upon their social networks as well as upon the didactical concept of university courses.