Some institutions are creating online clubs to foster communication, comradery, and professional growth for online students; perhaps bridging the gap of social interaction and the virtual classroom.  In a recent article, from Inside Higher Ed reports show over 70% of students who join these virtual social clubs do so for professional reasons. 

Partially geared towards the adult student, online education is a convenient way to pursue training, increase skills, or choose a new career path.  Coursework provides part of the puzzle while the networking of career advice, job opportunities and professional organizations could be the missing link.  In this economy where more adults are being forced back to school, learning about new jobs or positions is a strong draw to these virtual organizations.

Online clubs are the springboard that leads to increased communications, feeling of belonging, accountability, and stronger connection to the school.  This kind of social networking produces a community that, most notably, can improve retention at schools which is the key to growing an online program.

Join the Online Club

See what Roy Bartels, from Western Texas College had to say about measuring student readiness and how they currently use READI.

Measuring Student Readiness

What Every eLearner Should Know

Does your school face challenges with organizing leadership in distance learning programs?  Listen to what Ryan McLawhon from Tarrant County College and Pat Pezzelle of Flathead Valley Community College, two distance learning professional had to say about it at the eLearning 2010 conference.

Challenges with eLearning Leadership

Recently two of our team members, Dr. Mac Adkins and Alan Manley returned from the eLearning 2010 conference (sponsored by Instructional Technology Council).  As a homework assignment, I asked them to get some video clips of attendees sharing their two cents about various eLearning subjects.  Below see what Lynda Womer from St. Petersburg College had to say about new online students.

eLearning Conference 2010