This Connectivist-based course design model provides the conditions needed to host an interactive and social learning community while providing a highly personalized learning experience for each student. Students focus on their individual interests while achieving common course outcomes. Students produce and share content, synthesizing and summarizing their learning through online conversations and activities. This model relies heavily on active engagement of the instructor who facilitates course activities and challenges.

This online course design model provides an enhanced user experience to the traditional approach used in the Independent Community model. Multimedia (e.g. video, audio, animations) are liberally included in supplementing and enhancing other learning materials. Students increase activity through the creation and sharing of content with their peers. The instructor’s role also increases through the inclusion of active instructional strategies such as web conferencing, tutorials, web tours, seminars, demonstrations, and hosting debates. 

The Independent Community model takes a more traditional approach to distance learning and provides a carefully structured and sequenced, module-based course design. Although opportunities to connect with peers and the Instructor are still present, the bulk of the curriculum and activities are designed to be done independently and reflectively.

Find Templates, Tools, and further details on the Independent Community model by clicking here.