ERIC Number: EJ1339883
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2022
Pages: 13
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: EISSN-1556-3847
EISSN: N/A
Available Date: N/A
Sense of Community in Synchronous and Asynchronous Online Courses: Perceptions and Experiences of Nontraditional Students
Mays, Thomas; Ross, Sonseeahray
Online Journal of Distance Learning Administration, v25 n1 Spr 2022
Developing a sense of community (SoC) in college is vital due to its positive impacts on learning and student success. In this study, the researchers examine students' perceptions of SoC in synchronous and asynchronous online courses, with specific interest in the experiences of regional campus students who are often considered to be nontraditional. Study participants were enrolled in small business management programs offered on the regional campuses of a public Midwestern university. Participants' perspectives on the importance of connecting with others in college varied, specifically concerning connecting with other students. However, there was more agreement on the importance of connecting with course instructors. Additionally, participants reported differences in their perceptions and expectations of developing SoC in synchronous versus asynchronous online courses. Web conferencing and games were perceived to have positive impacts on SoC development, while there was a negative perception of the impact of discussion forums.
Descriptors: Sense of Community, Synchronous Communication, Asynchronous Communication, Online Courses, Student Attitudes, Student Experience, Nontraditional Students, College Students, Videoconferencing, Game Based Learning, Electronic Learning
State University of West Georgia. 1601 Maple Street, Honors House, Carrollton, GA 30118. Tel: 678-839-5489; Fax: 678-839-0636; e-mail: distance@westga.edu; Web site: https://ojdla.com/
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A
Author Affiliations: N/A