Models of Online Collaboration: Developing Course-Based Learning Communities

Until recently, research on collaborative learning took place mainly in face-to-face settings. However, since social media has become a reliable tool for instruction, new recommendations for instruction, such as Garrison's community of inquiry, are emerging. These frameworks build on established ideals such as social interdependence, process/product focus, and constructive dialogue. This session will examine how these principles have been implemented for online learning at Brown University with three different web tools through short case studies. Participants will then be asked to collaboratively design an assignment for a particular set of objectives and constraints.

OUTCOMES: Learn about theory and evidence-based practice for designing online collaborative assignments * Assess the use of social media to foster collaboration and build community * Brainstorm practical approaches to assignments by identifying requirements and constraints