Social network analysis with Canvas discussion data

[RitaLiu]

Hi Folks,

I've recently done some social network analysis using Canvas discussion data and discovered Canvas doesn't seem to track the hierarchy in replies. First-level replies are recorded between two actors but the next-level replies always link back to the author of the post which does not truly reflect relational patterns. Canvas assigns an entry ID to an entry post, and all replies are assigned reply IDs all link to the entry ID. Wondering if anyone has a similar SNA experience? 

Just thought if this is the case, it'll be difficult to generate a good SNA study based on Canvas data. Would Canvas consider tracking reply hierarchy in the future or it's already doing it but I missed it somehow? 

Thanks so much for any insights! 

Arita