The problem / intent

In our natural social environment we rely on a complex set of cues and conventions to maintain the flow and order of conversation. In computer mediated environments these need to be replaced by visual elements.

The context

Web-based collaborative learning environments.

The pattern

Consider the social cues, gestures and implicit rules relevant to the activity you with to conduct, and provide visual means of representing them within a system.

Related patterns

Leads to: Narrative spaces
Elaborates: Sustaining interaction
Elaborated by: League chart

Examples

A prime example of this pattern is the ubiquitous use of emoticons in chat-rooms and forums.