Action Research Project: - iMET

24ConclusionThe new educational paradigm demonstrates a shift in the mode of delivery fromcognitive-oriented, where authoritative information is placed before students, to socialconstructivistoriented, where students actively seek knowledge, interpret information, and testhypotheses collaboratively (Lim, 2001).The Quality Online Learning ProgramThe quality online learning program attempts to address student academic needs withinthe context of the new educational paradigm described previously. Several components must bepresent for this success to occur.A Community of LearnersIt is the nature of a learning community to be supportive and collaborative. Mitch Hallrelates the bonding that takes place when the opportunities for support and collaboration exist.“The key element to success is building a community of learners so that they have a connection(Personal communication, September 19, 2001). Marsha Connely is just as adamant that thelearning environment includes those opportunities that recognize the socialization needs of thestudents. “A community of learners is built using chat rooms, forums, and email with theinstructor” (Personal communication, September 13, 2001).The Face- to-Face ComponentThe value and benefit of the face-to-face component is both in building a community oflearners and learning to work collaboratively with others. The relationships developed during theface-to-face encounters enable online collaboration during asynchronous and synchronousmeetings. Thus, the face-to-face experience nurtures a community of learners. The collaborative