Category: Teaching and Learning
-
Virtual Communities of Practice
The concept of Communities of Practice (CoPs) was introduced by Jean Lave and Etienne Wenger in 1991 as a framework for understanding how learning occurs through social interaction and shared experiences. Originally rooted in studies of apprenticeships, the theory described how newcomers gradually move from peripheral participation to full involvement…
-
Identifying Outdated Content
In the rapidly evolving world of online education, maintaining the relevance and accuracy of course content is a matter of responsibility and professionalism. As instructors, we are entrusted with shaping learners’ understanding of a subject, and outdated content undermines not only their learning experience but also the credibility of the…
-
Designing Inclusive and Engaging Online Course Content
Creating effective content for online courses involves more than assembling readings, videos, podcasts and assignments—it’s about crafting an experience that invites students to engage, reflect, and thrive. To achieve this, content must be designed with both multi-modality and accessibility in mind. By leveraging a variety of formats and ensuring that…
-
A Glossary of Learning Activities
Affinity Mapping: A synchronous or asynchronous brainstorming activity where students categorize ideas, concepts, or responses into clusters based on common themes. This activity helps organize complex information and identify patterns in data or student insights. Annotated Readings: An asynchronous activity where students highlight and comment on key points within articles…
-
Terms to Know
Accessibility: The design of course materials and activities to ensure that all students, regardless of disabilities or differences in learning styles, can access and engage with the content. Accessibility features may include captioned videos, alternative text for images, and screen-reader compatibility. Active Learning: A teaching approach that emphasizes student participation…
-
Student Presentations
Student presentations are a valuable way to assess knowledge, encourage communication skills, and promote professional development in online graduate courses. However, delivering a presentation—especially in an online environment—requires a range of skills that students may not have fully developed. By providing targeted support, you can help your students excel in…
-
Designing a Learning Activity with Multi-Dimensional Engagement
Course Context: Marketing Ethics and Sustainability in Business Sample Learning Outcome: “Students will evaluate the ethical implications of marketing strategies and propose sustainable, customer-centric solutions that align with professional standards.” The Challenge This learning outcome challenges students to critically evaluate ethical issues in marketing, synthesize diverse perspectives, and propose actionable…
-
The Anatomy of Learning Activities
Learning activities are where the abstract goals of education—learning outcomes—take root and grow into concrete achievements. They are the structured experiences that transform theoretical concepts into applied skills, making education tangible and actionable. At their best, learning activities engage students fully, leveraging the dimensions of engagement—cognitive, emotional, social, behavioral, agentic,…
-
Types of Learner Engagement in Online Courses
Insights and Strategies Engagement is the cornerstone of effective online education, bridging the gap between learners and their goals. Yet, fostering engagement in virtual spaces presents unique challenges. Unlike traditional classrooms where interactions happen naturally, online environments require intentional strategies to connect students with the material, their peers, and the…
-
Portfolios
Using Portfolios in Online Graduate Courses: A Tool for Reflective Learning and Skill Development Portfolios have long been used in education to showcase student work and growth, but in online graduate courses, they take on unique significance. As online education expands, portfolios offer a way for students to engage deeply…
Learn at a Distance 