Conceptual Foundations, Research Issues and Research Perspectives # 3

 This blog relates to the following article:

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Palloff R.M, Pratt K. (2005) Online Learning Communities Revisited presented at 21^st Annual Conference Teaching and learning Retrieved 14-08-2010 http://www.uwex.edu/disted/conference/

Online learning Communities Revisited.

Online Communication is a major part in Online Learning. Whether in the traditional face to face capacity or online, the social aspect of learning remains key to its success. The social aspect of learning and creation of social identity in online communities is driving online technology. 

The definition of the role that online communities play in online learning have not changed drastically over time. It is through the use of reflective practice and learning that differentiates online collaborative learning with online communication. 

The social aspect of learning remains fundamental in the research of the satisfaction levels of staff completing online courses.  Students link social presence to student satisfaction. The use of collaboration enhances the social presence, enhances learning and breaks down feelings of isolations.  The collaboration then allows for students the opportunity to expand their knowledge. (Palloff 2005)

For learning to be effective, participants in learning communities need to do far more than just ‘lurk’ or just checking into their learning community in order to support the development of the community.  It is through the development of this community, and the reflection that comes through contributing that learning occurs.

My personal overview of the readings.

Our course is fully online, well at least it is for me, and isolation is definitely one of the key contributors on my challenges for learning. Whilst online course provide me with many benefits like flexibility of time and being able to work from home or work, Isolation is definitely something which makes completing the course and assignments much harder.  This article reiterated that need for interaction amongst peers to minimise this impact of isolation.