Engaging Students and Faculty in a Collaborative Learning Environment Let's Check-In!

Background:The increasing move to distance education has exposed gaps in the implementation and sustainability of collaborative learning. Collaborative learning requires a mutual approach to knowledge building, which includes both students and faculty. Purpose:This quality improvement pilot focused on providing additional socialization and collaborative learning in an asynchronous environment. Methods:A review of the literature identified opportunities to address the social and academic needs of students pursuing an online degree, along with strategies to address feelings of isolation experienced by some students in a distance learning environment. The Let's Check-In: Tips for Success webinars were developed and integrated throughout the graduate curriculum. Results:Students provided positive feedback verbally and in end-of-course evaluations. Course faculty reported a more synergistic approach to teaching. Conclusion:Let's Check-In: Tips for Success provided an environment where student communication and understanding of course content increased.