Source:Ways To Build An Online Learning Community – eLearning Industry
The internet has played a significant role in shaping our lives, and it has revolutionised how we learn and acquire knowledge. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there has been a rapid shift towards online learning, making it essential for learners and educators to adapt to the online learning environment. Despite this shift being relatively new, one aspect of traditional learning that has not been left behind is building an online learning community. In this blog post, we will explore how to build an online learning community and engage with peers and instructors for collaborative learning.
Create a Positive Online Learning Environment
Creating a positive online learning environment sets the tone for how students interact with their instructors and peers. As a student, an instructor or a parent, you need to promote positive communication that encourages the exchange of ideas. A positive environment also fosters teamwork values that boost collaboration during group tasks. Some of the ways you can create a positive online learning environment include making sure that everyone is respectful, taking time to recognise everyone’s ideas and maintaining open communication.
Establish a Platform for Communication
In traditional learning, the classroom is usually the designated space for communication. However, online learning demands a new approach; thus, the instructor, student or parent should be responsible for establishing a platform for communication. Creating a discussion forum, email group and designated chat rooms can seamlessly streamline communication between students and instructors. Although the platform for communication is essential, ensuring that it is properly utilised is also critical in engaging with peers and instructors for collaborative learning.
Promote Collaborative Learning
Then you need to embrace collaborative learning where students share their knowledge and learn from their peers. As an instructor or a parent, you need to come up with a plan that encourages group work where students engage in discussions, debates and constructive critiquing of their classmates’ work. Collaborative learning, when properly executed, results in better understanding, enhances critical thinking and promotes creativity and problem-solving. Additionally, collaborative learning enables a more in-depth understanding of the course and heightens the student’s level of interest in the subject.
Encourage Student-Led Learning
Lastly, you need to encourage student-led learning where the students take charge of their learning. Encouraging students to be self-directed and motivated is an ideal method for engaging them in the learning process. Instructors and parents should challenge students to take responsibility for their learning. Additionally, providing feedback on their work reinforces their growth and inspires self-growth.
Building an online learning community entails creating a positive learning environment, establishing a platform for communication, promoting collaborative learning and encouraging student-led learning. As we shift towards online learning, students, parents and instructors need to adjust to the online learning environment’s unique demands. Remember, engagement is key to motivating students to actively participate, and building a strong online learning community will transform the learning experience. The tips discussed above will enable you to create an online learning community that promotes collaborative, engaging and productive learning.
