Why some online communities work, and others..

January 14th, 2006

Here’s a short but in my view good list of some key points on how to successfully facilitate online interaction: How can effective facilitation strategies help to sustain a Professional Learning Community?

I agree with every point Trena Noval makes, and my favourite two are:

  • “Create a rationale for your community” : I’ve found most of the time people join discussion groups just to see what they’re like, when facilitating we should “rush” to help them appreciate our reason for getting together, this is bound to make a difference in their commitment to the community, I guess.
  • “Give teachers concrete ideas of how to engage in the work of being part of a team”:  this might prove challenging, especially in communities where backgrounds are quite heterogeneous, and in those in which no one is supposed to “be in charge” (as APIBA‘S SIGs), but it’ll definitely make a difference in keeping everyone involved and helping them feel their online presence makes a difference to the community.

    •  

    Online facilitation | Comments (2)
    Create a free edublog to get your own comment avatar (and more!)


    2 Responses to “Why some online communities work, and others..”

    1.   Daf on January 15, 2006 1:33 am

      Dear Gladys,

      Congratulations on such a fine blog! I love the layout, the colors and of course the content. I will follow your blog to keep up with your thoughtful comments on topics which are indeed in my areas of interest.

      Way to go!!
      Daf

    2.   gladysbaya on January 15, 2006 2:17 am

      Thanks Daf! I’m already blushing as I realize I’m “visible” online… You can’t imagine how moving it is to feel respected and supported by colleagues who clearly know a lot, and yet, keep supporting others to learn… :D
      LOL

    Comments are closed.