Creating a Community in the Course Room Through Discussion Posts

Forming Communities In An Online Learning Environment

Online learning has continued to become an increasingly popular way for adult learners to complete their course work remotely. Although this method of learning is convenient, many online programs have a higher attrition rate than face-to-face learning environments due to several factors including both personal issues and issues related to difficulty adjusting to an online learning environment (Chen & Bogachenko, 2022). One of the factors that contributes to a higher attrition rate for online learning programs is the feeling of isolation from peers and instructors (Chen & Bogachenko, 2022). Creating a networked structure such as a community is an effective way to learn in the 21^st century (Jan & Vlachopoulos, 2018). Discussion boards are used in online course rooms in lieu of traditional face-to-face lectures. Discussion posts allow students to engage in an online discussion with their peers and instructor using an online learning management system. Discussion boards also offer a flexible form of learning for both students and instructors due to the asynchronous nature of online discussion boards. Online discussions may also be used to enhance a sense of community and engagement for the class. This may be accomplished by the instructor engaging the students by responding to their discussions, asking questions to promote critical thinking, and by providing real-world examples for the students to consider and apply to their careers. It is noted that instructors who engage in a social presence in an online discussion board will impact student engagement in a course.

Interactions among the instructor and students in an online discussion board will have a substantial impact on students’ learning and willingness to engage in the online community (Celik, 2013). The social exchange theory proposes that there is a cost analysis in relationships, where the individual should see the benefits as outweighing the risks. This theory may be used to explore cohesion in an online learning environment. Students must consider the benefits of being a member of an online learning community as exceeding the risks of belonging to the online learning community. Positive communication among members of an online discussion board will influence participation and contribution to learning in the online environment (Celik, 2013). As students continue to engage with their peers and the instructor in the course, they will continue to find value in participating in an online discussion board. Fostering engagement in an online community also encourages each student to participate. Students who develop positive relationships within the online community will have a better learning experience in a virtual classroom. The benefits of utilizing online discussion boards allow for a positive interaction and support in a virtual learning environment.