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Learning CommunitiesLearning Communities (LC) are groups of learners who have similar interests, a desire to learn, and are willing to share ideas and opinions. For a sense of community to develop, members must have mutual commitment to the group's goals and engagement in the process. Once this is established, members grow through interaction with other members. A key concept underlying the LC model is that members learn best from each other. "The best classes, workshops, etc. I've ever attended are those that were presented by other teachers." — Julie Holzinger "The best ideas I have used in the classroom came from other teachers." — Lynn Raley A group which has regular and frequent discussions is able to cover issues in great depth. Holding a discussion over a period of days or weeks allows time to reflect, experiment with new ideas, share successes and failures, and receive feedback from others experiencing the same thing. This time is essential to achieving sustained and lasting growth. Another critical element is receiving support from peers in the effort to change. Changing is risky and difficult and not always fun. There are times when a person needs emotional support to find the strength and motivation to continue in the face of resistance and roadblocks. In these instances the support offered by other members of the learning community is invaluable. The group then becomes a true community where members care and help each other in times of need. In an online learning community, development is a continual and ongoing process with members sharing ideas, resources and support as needed. It's an anywhere, any-time environment whose focus is determined by the members providing "just-in-time" learning. Questions are asked as a need arises, which leads to discussion to develop a solution. The conversation is relevant, timely, and utilizes the group's experience. "My learning community provides me with support to continue my vision towards improving mathematics education. It allows me to fulfill my desire and commitment to offer quality instruction for the students." "As people grow as teachers during the school year, they change. [In an online LC] They can have continuous feedback at the appropriate growth phases." — Mike Weidner, Glendale High School The flexibility of 24/7 asynchronous availability, ongoing nature, and focused structure of online conferencing facilitates the creation of online learning communities geared toward providing professional development. While a listserv can be an excellent resource where the flow of information is primarily one way, the interactive discussions possible in an online conference are essential in creating a learning community where real growth relies on the active exchange of ideas. More Articles : Why an online LC : Online Conferencing |