Modeling the Dynamics of Using a Collaborative Hypertext

 

Chaomei Chen and Roy Rada

 

Department of Information Systems & Computing, Brunel University, Uxbridge UB8 3PH, U.K

Department of Information Systems, University of Maryland, Baltimore County, 1000 Hilltop Circle, Baltimore, MD 21250

 

Abstract

 

The dynamics of using a collaborative hypertext system is analyzed and modeled, based on time series data from the real users. First, we studied how users access a shared workspace simultaneously. Traditional time series modeling methods, notably multiple linear regression and Box-Jenkins ARIMA modeling techniques, are used. Second, we analyzed the relation between awareness-seeking events and a variety of structural properties associated with such events through a Poisson model. This process-oriented approach complements analytical and modeling methods concerning the dynamics of group work.

 

Keywords

 

Dynamic modeling, collaborative writing, interlocking behaviour, time series analysis, sequential behavioural analysis, Poisson models