01 / Reading Guide
Reading Guide
Who this book is for
For graduate education students and university teachers redesigning a course rather than simply adding a digital activity. The community-of-inquiry framework gives a common vocabulary for discussing learner interaction and teaching responsibilities. It is especially useful when a team needs to explain why an activity belongs online, in person or across both settings.
Prerequisites
Bring a course you have taught, supported or experienced. Familiarity with learning objectives and assessment helps when deciding how face-to-face and online work should contribute to the same learning process.
What it covers
Design, facilitation, direct instruction and assessment are treated as connected aspects of a blended learning environment. The discussion directs attention to the quality of inquiry and interaction, not just the amount of time spent online. Technology choices should follow the intended educational relationships and the support that students actually need.
How to use it
Choose one difficult learning outcome and map a sequence of preparation, discussion and feedback. Give each stage a reason for its format, and identify what the teacher must do to keep inquiry moving. Compare participation with evidence of learning rather than counting posts alone. Ask how a student with limited access could complete the same intellectual work.
Edition and sources
The publisher record identifies the 2013 book and PDF ISBN 9781927356487, with free online reading and download. The license is CC BY-NC-ND 2.5 Canada. Read the examples as design arguments from their period, and choose present-day tools only after checking their suitability for your learners.
