Designing Synchronous Online Interactions and Discussions

Abstract

With increased improvements to technology for online teaching, synchronous instruction continues to grow. Increasing student interaction has been an important component to enhance a sense of community in online learning and improve student satisfaction. There is a paucity of research on how to effectively manage online interaction and increase student engagement during synchronous sessions. Three instructors draw on their online teaching experience and discuss how they maximize student interaction during synchronous online discussions according to elements of a community of inquiry.