Community in online facilitation

1. Value of Community

1.1. - does not just happen--it has to be built

1.2. - teacher presence' in online environments is critical

1.3. more interaction=more learning according to students ·

1.4. - community as a “condition of learning” marked by increased levels of comfort

1.5. - opportunity to establish both personal and professional connections

1.6. - support mechanism contributes to increased levels of knowledge and growth

2. Designing Community

2.1. - use of learning theories and strategies that support human interaction

2.2. - design opportunities for learners to collaborate in required in design

2.3. - building begins from the ground up--difficult to do after the fact.

2.4. - planning for opportunities for people to “get to know” each other

2.5. - the actions of the instructor a primary factor that influences a strong sense of community

2.6. - high levels of interaction with the instructor lead to increased connectedness and learning.

2.7. - “directed facilitation” equates to creating a positive on-line learning experience

2.8. - requires facilitators as affirmers, challengers and influencers elements of time

3. Defining Community

3.1. - sharing a commonality of purpose, passion or vision and who share responsibilities and interact cooperatively to foster opportunities and accomplish goals

3.2. - must support social exchange of information and knowledge

3.3. - can be formal or informal ·

3.4. - physical proximity unnecessary

3.5. - a safe forum for communication

3.6. - foundation or structure is required for sustainment

3.7. - reflection is necessary for the community to progress

3.8. - a negotiated compilation of many ideas.

3.9. - facilitation of discussion is beneficial

3.10. - diversity is an asset co-operation, trust, sharing, collabortation of ideas

4. Creating Community

4.1. - is intentional-- it has to be built

4.2. - develop strong social bonds through interactive activities

4.3. - presence correlates strongly to engagement

4.4. - establish common goal and guidelines using established processes

4.5. - provide clear sign posts --setting the tone, content, and terms of engagement

4.6. - apply audio/visuals for ambiance

4.7. - consider the expertise level and learning style of individual group members