Siemen discussed in the video that participative pedagogy is collaboration and teamwork in curricular activities. The key to a successful learning community is collaboration and teamwork. The instructor must provide clear instructions for all activities and a detailed rubric for assessment. I can see how assessment may be difficult to grade when some students are more actively involved in the learning community than others. Siemen also discussed three models for assessment in a collaborative environment. The models are students assess their peers, students receive feedback from online communities, and educators assess based on student contributions. I personally believe students should be assessed based on what is required of them for a particular assignment. I can see how some members of a learning community could disagree with this idea if they are going above and beyond the expectations for these assignments. If the instructor’s rubric is understood, then there should be no misunderstanding about assessment.
I learned from the writing of Palloff and Pratt how important it is for members of a learning community to be active and maintain participation to achieve the desired goal. The goal of the learning community is to acquire knowledge by collaborating with others. I am aware of the benefits of communicating with professionals in and out of my field of work. Each member of the learning community should be aware of the role they play and how they are a crucial component. We are all aware of the difficulties that arise in our daily lives. We should be understanding for our partners and willing to help each other stay on track. An email or phone call to provide support and show concern could be what it takes to get someone back on track. This is essential for maintaining a successful learning community and achieving the overall goal.
References:
Palloff, R. M., & Pratt, K. (2005). Collaborating online: Learning together in community. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass.
Laureate Education, Inc. (2008). Principles of Distance Education. Baltimore: Author
I do believe that the communication is important in a successful learning community.
ReplyDeleteHave you found it difficult to collaborate effectively with partners that do not communicate effectively?
I believe all members of our learning community communicate an adequate amount and effectively. I often feel like I need to step it up myself and make sure I am participating enough to ensure I am satisfying my role in this community.
ReplyDeleteYour comment, "If the instructor’s rubric is understood, then there should be no misunderstanding about assessment," definitely means a lot to me. I have tried to develop the "perfect" rubric so many times, only to get frustrated when students misunderstand it. I have learned to try to be as specific as possible, and celebrate it when students interpret the rubric differently and present it from their own unique understanding. It seems that when we try to have more control, the outcome is exactly the opposite.
ReplyDeleteReaching out to community members who may be struggling to stay on track is a vital part in the success of a learning community. Very good point!
ReplyDelete