The connecting week was both enlightening and challenging. It provided an opportunity to engage with colleagues and students in new, dynamic ways, but it also highlighted the complexities of creating meaningful connections in an online or hybrid space.
From the perspective of a physiotherapy educator, connecting week reminded me of the importance of building a community of learners. Trust, communication, and engagement are foundational to collaborative learning, particularly in clinical education where teamwork and peer interaction are key. I appreciated the diversity of thoughts shared during connecting week, it broadened my understanding of how other educators approach online learning environments.
Yet, I also realized that fostering connections online requires deliberate planning and emotional intelligence. It’s not just about logging in to a session—it’s about creating a space where everyone feels seen, heard, and respected. For future implementation, I aim to incorporate more reflective check-ins, breakout group activities, and student-led discussions to strengthen the sense of belonging and engagement.