Learner independence and interdependence in online communities of inquiry : The case for teaching presence

• Historically, a core value of distance education has been independent study shaped by oftenrigorous design protocols and support structures of the educational institution. However, morerecently, distance education appears to be in a process of re-examining the teaching and learningprocess. Peters (2002) states that education in general is experiencing a “radical and far-reachingrestructuring process …” (p. 26) and will have a disproportionate effect on distance education.According to Peters (2002), “the digital revolution has already begun and is well underway indistance education” (p. 34). Much of this centers around access and interactivity and “how usefulit is to become members of virtual communities of students” (Peters, 2002, p. 35). What is notclear is the exact nature of these interactions and communities and how these changes will modifythe core value of distance education – learner independence.The core question here is: to what degree should online distance education hold to the ideal ofindependent study? An argument is made for the importance of considering both learner independenceand interdependence in an online learning environment. Evidence is presented regarding theimportance of teaching presence in the determination of the role of online learner, particularly asit relates to independence and interdependence. Novice online learners and their instructors werequestioned regarding their reaction to the experience of being online. Responses were examinedin relation to the perceived need for learner independence and interdependence in onlinecommunities of inquiry.

Ämnesord

NATURVETENSKAP  -- Data- och informationsvetenskap (hsv//swe)

NATURAL SCIENCES  -- Computer and Information Sciences (hsv//eng)

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