1. Candidacy Exam Katherine Chuang iSchool at Drexel University September 14, 2010 An analysis of social interactions in online health social networking Committee Members: (Chair) Christopher C. Yang Jennifer Unger Jung-Ran Park Margo Orlin Michelle Rogers Susan Gasson
Why do this study? Designing a social software (i.e. o nline intervention programs) requires understanding the context of uses (i.e. social behaviors). Understanding this will help with creating technology that aids the building of supportive peer environments that can help people change behaviors. Social support can be exchanged across text-based communication tools, but little is known about the impact of design on social interactions. This unknown is a compelling reason for studying patterns of supportive behavior across different online communication tools. Why here? Health promotion (i.e. smoking cessation) Social interactions via technology can influence patient care and outcomes.
Introduction Research Context Background Research Problem Problem Statement Specific Context Research Questions Rationale Purpose of Study Objectives Expected Results Research Aims What will be done How it will be done
People use different communication channels, but it’s unclear how technology impacts the social interaction patterns of e-patients. The objective of this study is to understand e-patients communities by finding insights where communication tool design supports exchange of social support.