Types of Learning Interactions
An overview of Learner-to-Content, Learner-to-Instructor, and Learner-to-Learner interactions in the online classroom with examples of each type.
Overview
Active learning is characterized by learners' engagement in "doing" activities, such as discovering, processing, or applying concepts and information. Active learning and engagement can be fostered through these interactive learning activities and involves three types of interaction:
Learner-Content
Learner-Instructor
Learner-Learner
It is essential to focus on the purpose of interactions rather than the number of interaction opportunities. Look for and identify opportunities in the course where one or more of these three types of interactions may be a suitable addition.
Learner-Content (L-C)
Learner-content interaction refers to the interaction that takes place between learners and the learning materials or content in a course. This type of interaction involves learners engaging with the course materials such as textbooks, articles, videos, podcasts, online resources, or other learning materials, in various ways.
Learner-content interaction can be passive or active depending on the type of activity and the level of engagement required from the learners.
Passive learner-content interaction may involve learners reading or watching instructional materials.
Active learner-content interaction may involve learners engaging in activities that require them to apply, synthesize, or analyze the information learned from the course materials.
Effective learner-content interaction promotes active learning and engagement, as it allows learners to interact with the course materials in a way that facilitates their understanding, retention, and application of the knowledge and skills taught in the course.
L-C Examples
Reading assignments Learners engage with the course content and develop their understanding of key concepts and ideas. | To develop understanding of key concepts and ideas:
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Online exercises Learners practice and reinforce their knowledge and receive immediate feedback on their performance. | To test understanding of course material:
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Multimedia resources Learners see the material in different formats and engage with the content in a variety of ways. | To illustrate or demonstrate course concepts:
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How-to-learn activities Learners become more effective and efficient learners, which can improve their overall success in the course and beyond. | To develop study skills and learning strategies:
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Reflection activities Learners monitor their progress, identify areas of strength and weakness, and develop strategies to improve their learning and performance. | To encourage reflection on their learning:
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Learner-Instructor (L-I)
Learner-instructor interaction refers to the interaction that takes place between learners and the instructor or facilitator of a course. This type of interaction involves learners engaging with the instructor in various ways, such as asking questions, seeking clarification, receiving feedback, or discussing course content.
Effective learner-instructor interaction promotes active learning and engagement, as it allows learners to receive guidance, feedback, and support from the instructor or facilitator of the course. It also helps to create a positive learning environment, fosters a sense of community and collaboration, and promotes learners' critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills.
L-I Examples
Feedback on Assignments, Quizzes, and Exams Learners to receive guidance, feedback, and support from the instructor, helping them to improve their critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills. |
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Synchronous Sessions Learners ask questions, seek clarification, and receive immediate feedback from the instructor. |
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Asynchronous Discussions learners to ask questions, seek clarification, and receive feedback from the instructor at their own pace. | Online discussions through
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Office Hours Learners receive personalized attention and support from the instructor. | Meeting with the instructor one-on-one to discuss course materials, assignments, or other related topics.
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Learner-Learner (L-L)
Learner-learner interaction refers to the exchange of ideas, knowledge, and feedback between learners in a learning environment. This type of interaction involves learners working together collaboratively. Learner-learner interaction promotes active learning and engagement, as it allows learners to share their perspectives, insights, and experiences with each other, and learn from each other's strengths and weaknesses. This type of interaction can enhance learners' critical thinking, communication, and social skills, and foster a sense of community and collaboration within the learning environment.
L-L Examples
Group Discussions Encourages sharing ideas and perspectives on the topic, asking questions, and responding to others' ideas. | Learners are assigned to small groups and given a topic to discuss. |
Peer critiques Learners receive feedback from their peers and improve their critical thinking, communication, and problem-solving skills. | Learners are assigned to pairs or small groups, and each member is asked to provide feedback on the other's work. |
Collaborative projects Promotes collaboration, teamwork, and communication skills. | Learners are assigned to groups and given a project to complete together. The project could be a research paper, a presentation, or a group assignment. |
Group problem-solving Promotes critical thinking, problem-solving, and communication skills. | Small groups are given a problem to solve together. Each group member is encouraged to contribute their ideas and perspectives on the problem, and the group works together to find a solution. |
Peer teaching Promotes active learning, as learners are required to master the material well enough to explain it to others. It also promotes communication and critical thinking skills. | Learners are assigned to pairs or small groups, and each member is asked to teach a topic to the other.
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Related Information
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