Online Resource:
Topic of Module and Resource Connection to Module:
The
topic of this module is the positive effect of online communities on teachers
and students. In Palloff’s (2007) Building
Online Communities, she discusses the value of online learning for
students. The first chapter discusses the benefits and downfalls of online
classrooms. While nothing can be taken away from sitting in a desk and having
contact with a teacher and other students, numerous students can benefit from
learning through an online classroom. Online classrooms create an environment
for all learners; however, it is a process that needs some time to digest and
understand. Palloff (2007) discusses
that in order for students to gain success in the classroom, they need to be
offered opportunities to be creative and active. While this normally happens in
a classroom, it can take a little longer to address in an online
classroom. Palloff (2007) states, that
when “teaching and learning leave the classroom, many elements are left behind
and new expectations emerge” (p. 11). Both teachers and students need to be
aware of these expectations and work together in order to ensure they promote
student growth and success.
While opportunities are given
to students through an online community, teachers can also be given the
opportunity to learn through online networking. Much like their students,
educators may be out of their comfort zone if participating in an online
community, but there are numerous benefits to the situation. Jennifer
Duncan-Howell (2010) discusses the importance of online communities not only
for students, but also for teachers in the British
Journal of Educational Technology. Duncan-Howell (2010) explains, “Online
communities are being increasingly used by teachers for professional support,
guidance and inspiration” (p. 1). If more and more
students are being encouraged to participate in online communities, teachers
should also take the plunge in order to develop their craft through online
collaboration. To compare with one of the positive aspects of
student online courses, Duncan-Howell (2010) states, “An interesting feature of
an online community is the sense of place it creates in the user, as feelings
of disconnectedness, isolation, and aloneness are reduced” (p. 326). Online
communities offer a sense of security and confidence that all people might not
have in a regular classroom.
The importance of online learning has increased,
but the concerns about these online communities have not vanished. As in any
situation, there are advantages and disadvantages to online learning
communities, but if used properly, they can have a wonderful effect on all that
are involved. With technology being at
the center of our society, it only seems appropriate that both teachers and
students get involved in an online community in order to further their
knowledge for the future.
References
Duncan-Howell,
J. (2010). Teachers making connections: Online communities as a source of
professional learning. British Journal Of Educational Technology, 41(2),
324-340. doi:10.1111/j.1467-8535.2009.00953.x
Palloff,
R. & Pratt, K. (2007). Building Online Learning Communities:
Effective strategies for the virtual classroom, (2nd ed.). San Franciso:
Jossey-Bass. ISBN: 978-0-7879-8825-8, pages 3-65.
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