Creating a Community in the Course Room Through Discussion Posts

Abstract

Online education has become increasingly popular due to the convenience of learning in an online environment. Online learning allows adult learners to continue their studies remotely. Discussion boards are used in an online learning environment in lieu of lectures from an instructor. Creating a community in an online learning environment through the use of discussion boards is important to engage adult learners. Discussion boards allow students to engage with and learn from their peers and from the instructor. This chapter will explore how to create a community in the course room through discussion posts to increase student engagement in an online learning environment. Online educational programs often experience a higher attrition rate since students may feel isolated from their peers and their instructors. Increasing engagement in the course room through discussion posts is important to ensure that adult learners are engaged in the course room. Interaction with peers and the instructor is instrumental in increasing engagement through online learning.