Interaction for Learning

There are three main types of interaction for learning that occurs in an online course. In the traditional classroom setting, the focus has been on the student to instructor interaction. But in the online environment, up until recently the focus has been on student to content interaction. However, to maximize learning in the online environment, the focus should not be on the student to content interaction. But rather, there should be a combination of activities that foster all three types of interaction for learning with a small percentage on the student to content portion. Authentic learning occurs when there is a large portion of learning activities that foster interaction between student to student and student to instructor.

Student to Instructor: This type of interaction occurs when the instructor directly interacts with the student either to deliver instructional content or to provide direct feedback regarding student performance. Examples include: discussion board forums, course announcements, instant messaging, web conferencing (Adobe Connect Pro), video teleconferencing (VTC), blogs, online journals, telephone, and email.

Student to Student: This type of interaction occurs when there is regular interaction among students. Activities that foster student to student interaction are collaborative and student-centered. Examples include: group discussion threads in the form of discussion boards, blogs, and wikis, and group assignments and projects.

Student to Content: This type of interaction occurs when the student interacts with instructional content (online material). For this type of interaction to be effective, all student activities including assessments, must be aligned to the learning objectives of the lesson. Activities must also be designed to meet the needs of students with different learning styles.

Video Attribution
Description: Interview with Richard Culatta about the importance of developing interactive online learning. Online learning should connect learners with each other and with experts and not just content.
Source: http://www.instructionaldesign.org/