Learning in Pyjamas: What Their Use of Webcams Reveals about Students’ Self-Presentation in Online Learning Activities

Abstract

The paper aims to describe how higher education students manage their webcams in a synchronous digital learning setting. A survey investigated students' self-presentation and the main factors impacting their decision to turn the camera on or not. The results indicate that only 6% of students always keep their camera on, affected by an inappropriate setting, only 19% have a dedicated space, and by personal appearance, 75% wear pyjamas or a gym suit. Students do not manage their impression either because they are not aware of the implications, or they are not technically equipped, or because they do not consider it relevant in online learning activities. Findings' implications provide relevant recommendations for higher education institutions to better prepare students to study effectively in a digital learning environment.