How to Promote Collaborative Learning Online
The integration of online engagement with collaborative online learning assessment adds value to the teaching and learning experience. Technology has improved the assessment experience with discussion board assignments and group projects, and also by providing helpful resources such as video, audio, articles, and databases. Additionally, icebreaker activities in the early weeks, such as games and simulations further help to engage and attract students to work and communicate together. Collaborative learning has helped learners achieve a more complete level of knowledge, due to frequent interaction with their peers as they exchange ideas and information. It also gives instructors an idea of the level of students’ knowledge, understanding, and ability to participate in teamwork.
However, many adult learners typically deal with time constraints and various issues in their personal and working lives, and have established patterns and opinions. They may not be particularly receptive to participating much in group discussions or assignments, and it may also be difficult for learners to be available to meet with each other to work on these projects.
Instructions
Please explain the ways in which instructors should implement collaborative learning, and when they are appropriate to use. Additionally, please share your experiences regarding the positive and negative aspects of collaborative projects for any type of learning environment (face-to-face, online, blended, etc.).Scoring Rubric Link:
http://www.scribd.com/doc/160384526/Scoring-RubricAdditional Learning Resources
Eberly Center (n.d.). Design and Teach a Course. Retrieved August 13, 2013 from http://www.cmu.edu/teaching/designteach/design/instructionalstrategies/groupprojects/benefits.html
Horton, W. (2006). Designing for the Virtual Classroom, E-Learning by Design. Retrieved August 14, 2013 from https://class.waldenu.edu/bbcswebdav/institution/USW1/201360_04/MS_INDT/EIDT_6511/Week%207/Resources/Resources/embedded/Horton_Ch9_DesignVirtual_.pdf
Palloff, R., & Pratt, K. (2007). Building online communities: Effective strategies for the virtual classroom. Retrieved August 13, 2013 from https://class.waldenu.edu/bbcswebdav/institution/USW1/201360_04/MS_INDT/EIDT_6511/Week%207/Resources/Resources/embedded/Paloff_Ch8.pdf
Sherry, L. (1996). Issues in Distance Learning. Retrieved August 14, 2013 from http://home.comcast.net/~lorraine.sherry/publications/issues.html
Weimer, M. (2011). 10 Benefits of Getting Students to Participate in Classroom Discussions. Retrieved August 14, 2013 from http://www.facultyfocus.com/articles/teaching-and-learning/10-benefits-of-getting-students-to-participate-in-classroom-discussions/
