The most common way I have observed a community being created between distant learners themselves & between the community is by means of a community project where learners come together to create an avenue of fund raising to give back to the college weather it is in form of equipment/furniture or enhancement projects, the learners work along with their lecturers not just to brainstorm but implement the project. Even after they would have graduated by means of that project they would have the feeling of a sense of belonging and their mark is long lasting within the walls of the college.
Another common activity that I have noticed creating a sense of community is the college week where there are games and actives for all. The media Facebook is another mean by which a community is created, learners are able to list in their bio their accomplishment of attending the College and all pass and present Teacher Candidates are able to connect with each other as a community.
Dear Dawn,
Thanks for sharing with us your experience of 'creating a community' among distance learners. It's exciting to learn how learners and the community can collaborate in a project that furthers learning. In CoI, the collaboration and learning is purposeful and directed by the curriculum. Thats why it is a closed community. In CIF, which supports the example you have given , it is open and brings together community of practitioners.
Once gain thanks for this contribution. Let's now hear what others have to say.
Cheers,
Beatrice
Thanks for sharing with us your experience of 'creating a community' among distance learners. It's exciting to learn how learners and the community can collaborate in a project that furthers learning. In CoI, the collaboration and learning is purposeful and directed by the curriculum. Thats why it is a closed community. In CIF, which supports the example you have given , it is open and brings together community of practitioners.
Once gain thanks for this contribution. Let's now hear what others have to say.
Cheers,
Beatrice