One of the most considerable factors for faculty to overcome during a transition from traditional to online teaching and learning is the trepidation that one might experience. This is quite common. A great deal of research and applied practice has helped to alleviate many of these concerns. We have indeed come a long way in the last twenty years. Of primary concern are the environmental conditions that relate to student engagement and interaction in the classroom and how it compares to online teaching and learning.

There are several factors that one must consider in order to address these common concerns. Certainly the “Art of Teaching Online” (Pedagogy) requires a different approach to traditional classroom learning spaces, with regard to how we communicate or otherwise show instructional presence. There are at least (3) factors that are necessary components in order to assure a better learner experience. They include (Organization, Information and Interaction). In terms of learner (interaction), we have (3) primary principles which include (Student-Student, Student-Instructor and Student-Course Content)

As it relates to interaction, the traditional “threaded” discussion is becoming somewhat archaic in certain regards. Now this is not to say that it is not useful. It is absolutely still relevant as an effective online learning resource. However we now have additional resources that have been developed based on further research related to the aforementioned points regarding (Student-Student, Student-Instructor and Student-Course Content), that provide additional support beyond a basic asynchronous online discussion forum.