Online forums and groups often rely on the intervention of ‘moderators’ to assist in the smooth running of their affairs. The volume of member contributions (‘postings’) is becoming unmanageable for moderators so some groups are introducing algorithmically generated categorisations for members.
Our objective is to identify challenges and expose some of the primary concerns of experienced moderators, arising from their personal experiences with these innovations on Facebook in fostering better experiences in Facebook groups. We want to help improve the tools that could address these challenges by forming a series of case studies. Together, these will make up a Human-Computer Interaction thesis on the design of constructive online discussion environments.
This study is recruiting now until 14 February 2020.
Participant Eligibility
- You must be over 18
- Have been a member of one or more Facebook Groups
- Have not previously attempted this study
What’s involved in the study
The study will have two phases:
- a 4-8 minute questionnaire
- a follow-up semi-structured interview (with the agreement of participants who complete the questionnaire) around 30 minutes to 1 hour. This can be done in person with the researcher or through video/audio call, or text chat online.
Participants who are interested in the interview can sign-up by leaving their email address at the end of the questionnaire.
Benefits of taking part
- We will donate £1 to charities participants choose at the end of the questionnaire
- Interview participants will get £10 Amazon voucher each.
Confidentiality
The survey and follow-up interview are completely anonymous. The interview will be transcribed and anonymised within two weeks of the interview, and then destroyed. This study has received approval by the Department of Psychology Research Committee1.