Do We Speak the Same Language? The Effect of Emojis on Learners in an Online Learning Environment

Abstract

Emojis are quickly spreading in text-based communication. Accordingly, most students and teachers in an online learning environment integrate their online text communication with emojis to explain or support their perspective. However, because of the variation in students and teachers’ age, gender and culture, it was essential to ensure that students and teachers have the same understanding of used emojis. Consequently, we ran our study to ask students and teachers about their interpretations of the most common emojis. The results show moderate agreement between students and teachers. For example, was interpreted as ‘perfect’ by students and ‘punishment’ by teachers. This variation in interpretation must be resolved to ensure acceptable online communication between students and teachers.