Covid-19 has turned our lives upside down. Moving into online training is the new normal. One of the main concerns became a sense of being cared for and connected to others.
Learning in an unconnected environment can lead to a drop in performance and enthusiasm. The only thing that can be done is to promote learning by encouraging learners to join an online community.
The goal here is to deliver more than just a piece of interesting data. It involves creating a more authentic, human, and, most importantly, more attainable online training experience. An online facilitator may help with this, especially when it comes to creating a sense of belonging in a learning group.
Online Community- What is it?
An online learning community is a collection of students who share similar learning objectives. People can use these communities as a forum to share information, discuss courses or subjects, and more.
It is a programme in which learners with similar educational aspirations work together to connect with teachers and participate in peer-to-peer learning. Because they allow for social learning, student-to-teacher support, and much more, online learning communities are a great supplement to online courses. They also aid in the establishment of accountability, as students work in groups to support one another in achieving learning objectives.
Benefits Of Having Online Community
There are several advantages for entrepreneurs who want to create an online community.
• Obtaining Customers
• Increase the value for learners.
• Get regular feedback to help you improve your course.
• Market the course more effectively by understanding their needs as well as their pain points.
• You have a platform to promote your endeavours through podcasts, webinars, and other methods.
• It brings your students closer together.
When students approach their courses with a determination to start, respect, value, and fully engage in the content, discussions, and group activities, online learning communities can be educationally and personally gratifying. Much has been written about the importance of the student-faculty relationship in online courses. The enormous influence of the internet peer community is receiving more and more attention.
Types Of Online Community
The following are the different types of online training communities. These types are distinguished by the purpose that brings them together:
- Interests and Passions Based Community: This type of online learning community is for people who share common interests or passions.
- Action-Based Community: This type is for people who want to band together for a common cause. For example, you could raise funds to hold a seminar or even a webinar.
- Location-Based Communities: These are communities that are based on geographical boundaries. For example, a local Facebook group highlighting the best restaurants in your area.
- Profession-Based Communities: People from a specific profession gather here to share their perspectives, knowledge, and other resources in order to help one another. Nurses, for example, may form a group to expand their professional knowledge, or painters may form a group to hone their skills or craft.
Conclusion
Building an online learning community can be more difficult than it appears. However, the right technique will help you to effectively communicate with your learners. Always begin with baby steps.
For example, starting with a course-related forum may be sufficient, and then gradually progressing to groups, chats, and other features. It has enormous value in terms of learning from one another.
Many course developers and trainers look for learners who share their interests, and an online LMS platform like-WPLMS can help you find them in the best way possible. It also motivates them to acquire new skills and form long-term relationships.