Building a Community of Learners: Case Study in a Hybrid Course
Abstract: This paper presents a case study in a graduate level hybrid course. Learning the course content and building a community of learners were the two major targets of the course. Course instructional strategies used constructivist models of face-to-face meetings, asynchronous online discussion forums, and a team project to create a social action plan manual. Face-to-face and online discussion forums were used to create better interpersonal relations, help students become reflective thinkers, and build a sense of community of learners. Course description, participants, and instructional methods are described. In this case study the development of a community of learners across the course was studied. The following components of building a community of learners are described: participants, technology, acquired skills, and community building. Finally, lessons learned will be discussed.