Concept Reflection

Online learning varies from face to face. However, in either setting the following three elements are present: content, collaboration, and communication. Online and face to face learning environments use common tools to explore the content and subject matter. Collaboration and communication differs with the online learning environment. Collaboration and communication is explored via technology. Technologies such as learning communities, wikis, and Skype all learners to learn and grow together. I have found both wikis and Skype to be very benificial tools for the online learning environment. I use wikis to collaborate and communicate with my learning community concerning projects. The learning communities offer suggestions and feedback concerning assignments.
I have really found Skype to be helpful. I can chat or instant message classmates as well as instructors. I have never had this privilege in a face to face setting. I feel in some ways more connected with my classmates and instructors in the online learning environment than in a face to face environment. Maybe this is because communication is a must with the online learning environment. The discussions and technology tools results in effective communication and collaboration with both classmates and instructors. I am glad that I have been introduced to these tools and the online learning environmment. At one time, I feared the online learning environment. However, this fear has changed to interest and excitement. I truly enjoy this avenue of learning!