Online learning communities achieve three important goals that work to increase student learning and satisfaction. First, students are connected to each other through collaborative learning experiences. Second, the instructor plays the role of facilitator, and not disseminator of knowledge and thereby empowers student to become responsible for their own learning. Third, the online environment integrates a learning experience where the student constructs knowledge with classmates rather than receiving it passively. Therefore, student connection and collaboration, student-directed learning, highlighted by reflective experiences, and a constructivist approach to knowledge creation are the essential elements of an online community.
Building such a community requires the instructor and student to be aware of the differences in an online learning environment and what is required for success. Second, the instructor has primary responsibility for creating a safe and nurturing environment where the student can feel safe and comfortable to take advantage of the new learning format. Lastly, the instructor must work diligently in the first two-weeks to connect students to one another and the community. Responding to those who appear to be less integrated and engaged requires the instructor to reach out to these students because early connection to the experience, much like in a college setting, is essential for their matriculation, learning, and success.
Sustaining an online community is first a result of a firmly developed community in the first two-weeks. Second, instructional requirements that become familiar and routine increase the likelihood of student engagement. Moreover, students develop and benefit when these familiar activities also engage them in critical dialogue, constructive feedback, and professional commentary. Moving students into greater levels of collaboration and self-directed learning is critical. Lastly, instructors must continue to engage the students and the learning community as a peer and partner in the learning process and contribute fully.
Hi Rudy,
ReplyDeleteYou mention how the instructor of OL learning needs to play the role of facilitator vs disseminator of information. I have recently begun moving from CR learning focus to blended OL learning focus, for my clients.
The first thing I noticed is that the design on CR and OL courses is not the same. Also, much to my surprise and approval, I realized that my role is that of a facilitator vs teach, if you will.
Having been in corporate management and leadership for many years I am a firm believer that discussion creates buy in. To me this speaks to the Ol learning communities approach...the more discussion and collaboration, the more peer learning, the more buy in and the more successful the outcomes. I'm excited to see the continuing evolution of OL learning and education as a whole.
Thanks for sharing your blog! D
Hi Rudy,
ReplyDeleteI think that establishing an community is very important in online learning. I think that students can thrive and contribute more when they feel like they belong to something. I agree with you that instructors should engage students in critical dialogue, constructive feedback, and professional commentary. Good Post!