Bill+Lindquist

//Extending learning with a networked community of learners A part of the Hamline University PLP Why Bother? investigation Bill Lindquist//

My Question: How can I create meaningful extensions of a face-to-face classroom using a Web 2.0 networked community of learners?

I have previously used Blackboard course management software. It has felt flat, stiff, and forced – hardly an ideal environment for learning - time to change


 * My response was to build on Ning and restructure my expectations.
 * My only expectation of students was to participate, collaborate, and grow – in an authentic, real, student-centered, manner.
 * My goal was to see where it would lead.


 * Blackboard still handled the mundane: submit assignments, archive documents, etc
 * Community interactions were switched to Ning

Why Bother?
 * We formed dynamic and real discussion around topics within the class
 * There was strong support of student ownership of their learning
 * It prompted student initiation of features within the Ning
 * There was promotion of a significant extension of the learning environment established in class.
 * Web 2.0 networking played an important role in this class and will serve as a critical element in my future classes
 * There is interest elsewhere on campus - our goal is to share the powerful learning practices we experienced with others.