ABSTRACT
In an e-learning context, the challenge for participants to communicate their thoughts and insights is no less formidable than creating a social presence. However, while social presence is an essential element of a community of inquiry, the purpose of that community is more than social interaction. The purpose of an educational community of inquiry is invariably associated with intended cognitive outcomes. That is, cognitive processes and outcomes are at the core of the transactions. Social presence and even teaching presence are, in most respects, facilitators of the learning process. That is not to diminish their importance, but to recognize the ultimate purpose of an educational experience. The goal here is to provide an explanation of the nature and quality of discourse conducted in a text-based environment.
