ECSM Call for Papers

• Academic Papers
• Case Studies
• Work in-Progress Papers
• PhD Papers
• Masters Papers
• Posters and Presentations
• Non- Academic or Practitioner Contributions
  

Aims and Scope 

The primary aim of the ECSM is to encourage academic and professional dialogue on the diverse aspects of social media, promoting research that contributes to the better understanding of how social media impacts our lives. The conference seeks to bridge the gap between theory and practice by encouraging contributions that offer both theoretical insights and practical implications. It also provides a collaborative environment where participants can engage in knowledge exchange, interact with peers, and explore emerging trends and issues in social media. 

The scope of ECSM is deliberately broad and interdisciplinary, encompassing research that explores the societal implications of social media, its role in communication and community building, and its integration into business and educational practices. Additionally, the conference addresses the analytical and technical aspects of social media, such as data mining, analytics, and the ethical and policy-related challenges that arise from its use.  

Topics Covered 

The call for papers for the ECSM conference asked for contributions that considered the following topics. In addition the committee welcomed papers on a number of specialist mini-tracks which can be seen at the end of this list. 

Social Media and Society

• how social media affects social behaviour  
• cultural dynamics 
• community building. 

Social Media in Business

• social media as part of business strategy,  
• marketing,  
• customer engagement  
• brand management. 

Educational Uses of Social Media

• the integration of social media into educational settings,  
• the impact of social media on learning, teaching methods, and academic engagement. 
• Social media as a research tool. 

Social Media Analytics and Data Mining

• methodologies and tools for analysing social media data 
• sentiment analysis 
• network analysis  
• big data challenges. 

Policy and Ethical Issues

• regulatory, legal, and ethical implications of social media use,  
• privacy concerns,  
• misinformation 
• the digital divide. 

Emerging Technologies

• the intersection between social media and emerging technologies 
• artificial intelligence  
• virtual reality  
• blockchain. 

Mini-Tracks 

Experts in the field proposed mini tracks on the following topics. Papers accepted on these topics after the double-blind peer review process will be presented as mini tracks at the conference and are also published in these proceedings. 

Social Media Data Storytelling Through Data Visualisation & Visual Analytics 

Mini track Chair: Dr Violetta Wilk, Edith Cowan University, Perth, Australia 

“Data visualisation and visual analytics has been identified as a key tool in big data analysis because they draw on the human visual and cognitive capabilities to analyse data quickly, intuitively and interactively.” (Lowe & Matthee, 2020, p.469). Despite the fast-changing nature of social media and the myriad of types of content produced by users, academic methodology for exploring has not evolved as promptly. Researchers often lack appropriate tools, knowledge and exemplars in data visualisation and visual analytics for social media, big data analysis. Big data offers valuable insights for brands and users alike. Researchers agree that data visualisation through data storytelling enhances efficiency and effectiveness of information retrieval and insights. This track aims to explore and provide insights into social media data visualisation and visual analytics options for researchers. Specifically, it seeks to offer an avenue for demonstration and knowledge exchange about social media qualitative data analysis techniques and suitable tools, platforms and dashboards for data visualisation and visual analytics. Discussion about social media qualitative visual data analysis, visual output, methodology challenges and opportunities, industry collaboration opportunities and case studies, is intended. The topics of interest include, but are not limited to: 

• Social media data visualisation 
• Visual analytics 
• Data visualisation software, platforms and tools 
• Social media content analysis 
• Qualitative data analysis challenges and opportunities 

Enhancing Higher Education through Generative AI and Social Media Integration 

Mini track Chair: Joao Batista, Gonçalo Carnaz, University of Aveiro, Portugal and Anabela Mesquita, ISCAP, Porto, Portugal 

In the rapidly evolving landscape of higher education, leveraging advanced technologies like Generative AI and social media integration presents transformative opportunities. This mini-track explores how these innovations can enrich teaching, learning, and administrative processes in higher educational institutions. Generative AI, with its capability to create personalized learning experiences, automate administrative tasks, and facilitate research, is revolutionizing education. Simultaneously, the strategic use of social media enhances communication, collaboration, and engagement among students, educators, and stakeholders. This mini-track invites researchers, educators, and practitioners to discuss and share research results on integrating Generative AI and social media into higher education. We aim to uncover the potential benefits, address challenges, and showcase successful implementations to provide a comprehensive understanding of these technologies' impact. The topics of interest include, but are not limited to: 

• Student Engagement 
• Collaboration and communication 
• Innovative teaching methods 
• Academic integrity and assessment 
• Case studies and best practices 

Important Dates