3 Simple Steps to Online Student Collaboration

Online student collaboration can play an important part in improving engagement and results. According to noted teaching expert Barbara Gross Davis;

“Students working in small groups tend to learn more of what is taught and retain it longer than when the same content is presented in other instructional formats. Students who work in collaborative groups also appear more satisfied with their classes.” (Tools for Teaching – Barbara Gross Davis)

With this in mind, it’s no surprise that recent advances in educational technology are focused on creating an online classroom, designed to encourage students to work together over the web.

Choosing the Right Software for Online Student Collaboration

The Moodle learning platform, and primary learning platform Learnanywhere, encourage users to share work and learn from each other. Acting as a central hub, the platforms let students upload and discuss work online in one easily accessible place. From peer reviews and group projects, to study tips and personal reading lists, there’s plenty of opportunity for your learners to use the area for sharing knowledge and providing assistance online.

Online communities like the e-portfolio and secure social network Student Jotter will further engage your class in the online learning process. The ability to personalise your profile and send personal, yet secure messages, means students can take ownership of anything they do together on the web.

Google Apps for Education takes your students down a different route, facilitating live collaboration. Students using the Apps can view and update their joint projects, like documents, spreadsheets and presentations, all in real-time.

Taking the 3 Steps to Successful Student Collaboration

Once your using the software that suits you, follow this step by step process to start promoting effective online student collaboration in your class.

1. Building an environment - Just like real life, students need an online classroom to work in too. Set up a discussion forum in Moodle or Learnanywhere, start a work-wall in Student Jotter or link your classes’ Google Apps accounts, it’s up to you.

2. Modelling the process - Students need to learn how to work together and you can show them how to do it. Demonstrate the benefits of the process by stimulating discussion, adding comments and providing timely feedback for your learners. With your help, they’ll be able to learn how to support each other.

3. Reviewing your work - If your introducing online collaboration for the first time, it’s important to get evaluate your activities. After setting an online exercise, discuss how it went. Ask your students for thoughts and opinions, so you can improve the experience for next time.

Tags:

Learnanywhere

Moodle

Online Collaboration

Social Media

Student Jotter