THE COMMUNITY OF INQUIRY & BLENDED/ONLINE LEARNING

 The Community of Learning (COI) is a theoretical framework modeling the process of collaborative-constructivist learning. This approach to learning necessitates socialization, cognitive engagement, and a teaching presence.

Today's educational landscape has evolved to transcend traditional face-to-face instruction. Educational delivery methods now depend significantly on technology to offer instructional content that enhances the learning experience.

 Online learning now represents the post-industrial era of distance education with the focus on designing context specific collaborative educational experiences (Garrison & Cleveland-Innes, 2010). Integrating ICT, online learning creates both independence and interaction enabling the creation of learning communities. Online learning has been utilized extensively to enhance classroom learning as well as to increase access to educational experiences at a distance [1]. 

Blended learning (BL), or the integration of face-to-face and online instruction (Graham 2013), is widely adopted across higher education with some scholars referring to it as the “new traditional model” (Ross and Gage 2006) or the “new normal” in course delivery (Norberg et al. 2011) [2]. 

Some technology tools used to facilitate and enhance the learning experience include platforms such as Zoom, Screencast-o-matic, Blogger, and YouTube. 

ZOOM

Zoom is a cloud-based video communication platform that enables the setup of virtual video and audio conferencing, webinars, live chats, screen-sharing, and other collaborative features. It is commonly utilized for online meetings, remote work, and connecting with people in various locations.

SCREENCAST-O-MATIC (ScreenPal)

ScreenPal, previously Screencast-O-Matic, is a comprehensive screen capture and recording software available across multiple platforms. Initially created in 2006, it provides various tools for enhancing communication and learning via visual media. Some key features of ScreenPal include screen recording, screenshots, video and image editing and content hosting.

BLOGGER

Blogger, acquired by Google in 2003, stands as one of the longest-running blogging platforms worldwide. It enables users to craft blogs with time-stamped entries, which is perfect for sharing text, photos, and videos. Some facts about Blogger are it is user friendly- great for beginners, free, can be customized to the user's liking and it is integrated with Google accounts.

YOUTUBE

YouTube stands as the world's most expansive video-sharing platform, offering a vast array of videos for exploration. YouTube can be used for activities such as uploading personal videos and content, community interaction, watching videos, and subscription to various channels.

As technology advances the dynamics of teaching and learning will as well. It is important that as educators, we stay on the "cutting edge" and acclimate to remain effective in our roles and ensure that the knowledge we impart is engaging and exciting and can stimulate the learner!

1. Garrison DR, Akyol Z. The Community of Inquiry Theoretical Framework. In Handbook of distance education 2013 May 7 (pp. 104-120). Routledge.

2. Dziuban C, Graham CR, Moskal PD, Norberg A, Sicilia N. Blended learning: the new normal and emerging technologies. International journal of educational technology in Higher education. 2018 Dec;15:1-6.