Why should we collaborate online?
We looked that the Advantages of Online Collaboration which are listed below:
- Convenience in Organizing Meetings
- Easier Management of Projects
- Faster Completion of Projects
- Significant Cost Savings
We also looked at the Disadvantages of Online Collaboration
- Lack of Face-To-Face Interaction
Visit this website for more information : https://www.eztalks.com/video-conference/advantages-and-disadvantages-of-online-collaboration.html
Our second meeting centre a discussion around online courses and what makes up a PLN group (Personal Learning Network):
PLN = a group of people who can guide your learning, answer questions and give you the benefit of their own knowledge and experiences.
Awareness of the term “social loafer” and how we must be careful to label people as such without taking into consideration social or cultural differences.
Using online platforms requires students to be confident, otherwise they may not want to participate as much within the group.
Living in a VUCA world
Volatility
Uncertainty
Complexity
Ambiguity)
We worked on the Prezi tool. One of the things I love about this course is that we are exposed to different platforms and tools to present and collaborate.
I was asked to assist as a co-topic leader which was a first from me and it was interesting to co-facilitate on an online platform. I did share ideas in-order to improve on feedback received and aid with collaboration from my existing roll in my company. Many of the participants did relate well to having clear action items. One of my biggest concerns about this type of project management is that it would stunt the free-flowing conversation. However, this was not the case. We were able to have meaningful discussions relating to the topic at hand.
Readings and other resources
PLNs Theory and Practice by Kay Oddone, part 1.
PLNs Theory and Practice by Kay Oddone, part 2.
To read
Brindley, J., Blaschke, L. M. & Walti, C. (2009). Creating effective collaborative learning groups in an online environment. The International Review of Research in Open and Distance Learning, 10(3). Available here.
Capdeferro, N. & Romero, M. (2012). Are online learners frustrated with collaborative learning experiences?. The International review of research in open and distance learning, 13(2), 26-44. Available here.
Further optional
Wenger, E. (2010). Communities of practice and social learning systems: the career of a concept. In Social learning systems and communities of practice (pp. 179-198). Springer London. Available here.
Anderson, T. (2008). Teaching in an online learning context. In The theory and practice of online learning (pp. 343-395). Athabasca university press. Available here.
Dron, J. & Anderson, T. (2014). Teaching crowds: Learning and social media. Athabasca University Press. Available here.
