Online Learner Engagement Model:

In order for online learners to have the connections to their learning community, it is essential for the educator to design a course in which promotes engagement. To accomplish this, an online educator has the responsibility of creating a unique space where the connections, though often asynchronous, continue to encourage the learning relationships, and collaborative efforts of all involved, including the instructor as a facilitator.

As outlined above, the model for the online learning community includes the components of support, resources and networks. It is essential to keep in mind that, though the course design is of the utmost importance, the inter-connectivity and dependence of each of these components is the critical factor when considering true engagement of each of the course members. While guided and facilitated by the instructor, the network serves as support and suppliers of resources, in the form of supplemental materials and expertise. Likewise, the support of the learning community comes from both the network of people involved as well as the resources supplied and supplemented by all. Finally, the resources available are available for support and in order to further promote the network of discussion and learning.

The inter-connectivity of the online learning engagement model, is intended to be a fluid construct which utilizes the theory of learning through connectivism. This theory is one where "knowledge is distributed across networks and the act of learning is largely one of forming a diverse network of connections, and recognizing attendant patterns. (Siemens, 2005). Within the larger network of learners in the course, smaller groups need to be created in order for learners to become more familiar with others, and more able to connect with smaller groups, rather than attempting to reach all learners within the network with each discussion or project. Therefore, the creation of certain types of online communities, outlined below, will assist with the networking of students.