Abstract

The aim of the project is to establish an online learning community via a learning hub that simulates discussion in classroom and function as a natural extension of the classroom lecture and tutorial model that we are practicing. From a pedagogical point of view, according to the ‘Community of Inquiry’ framework proposed by Garrison and colleagues, students create a deep and meaningful learning experience by collaboratively engaging themselves in purposeful critical discourse and reflection to construct personal meaning and confirm mutual understanding. We also note that we have been practicing Peer Assisted Study Sessions (PASS) for our course, in which students reinforce key concepts and consolidate understanding in a relaxed and supportive learning environment, through peer learning guided by PASS leaders. While we observe a successful model for learning, the current practice is subject to two limitations: first, the learning resources are located at various places and it’s inconvenient for the students to quickly cross-reference what they are discussing; and second, the discussion is restricted to an assigned classroom at a specific time slot. Driven by the fact that these limitations can be lifted with the help of technology, we envision that any learning process that relies heavily on peer discussion can be carried out on a virtual online learning hub that is not restricted to a particular classroom on campus or a particular time slot, with the various resources integrated within the platform. We also see the possibility of incorporating the practice to a MOOC version of our course, or other MOOC courses. The online learning hub includes:

• Resources such as micro-modules are readily accessible within the platform, it provides a handy repository of knowledge for the students;
• Multi-session live chatrooms that are running in parallel so that students having a common interest on a specific topic can participate in a particular chatroom, which is conducted on an agreed time-slot of their choice. Students exchange ideas in a preliminary fashion similar to classroom discussions;
• Discussion forums are places where students can post their more elaborated reflections, presumably after the virtual discussion in the chatrooms. Facilities for peer ratings are available on the platform, performance of students’ participation can be part of the assessment for the course.
• Student helpers are hired as peer leaders to facilitate/guide the discussion in chatrooms and forums. They also contribute to the rating of students’ performance.