Examining Online Learning Experiences in Collectivist Cultures Through the Community of Inquiry Framework

• In Event: 25.066 - Learning Experiences, Community of Inquiry, and Online Learner Engagement

Abstract

The Community of Inquiry (CoI) offers a framework to analyze online learning experiences that has been mostly used within individualist cultures (e.g., USA, Canada, and other English-speaking countries). This study addresses this gap by looking at how CoI applies to collectivist cultures. Four hundred and ninety-five students responded to a Portuguese version of the CoI survey. Since the percentage of agreement were high for social, teaching and cognitive presence this may translate into a significant level of student engagement. An implicit need, especially shown on the answers to the open-ended question, for additional ways to express affection and care towards all members of the online learning communities was identified.

Author

• Ana-Paula Correia, The Ohio State University