Don't "Go It Alone"

American society today is the most individualistic in the world, according to Hofstede (2001). We do not easily integrate into groups. And yet, as individuals we have a deep longing for connecting with others, for sharing life's ups and downs, and for having our lives count for something with others. From the very beginning when God said "Let US make man in OUR image" (Gen. 1:26), we have it as a part of our nature to be in community. In the past, community was defined by location, family, and local involvements. According to Pallof and Pratt (2007) involvement in community today means "making a conscious commitment to a group". In terms of online learning, perhaps we need a bit more of the model of Jesus with his disciples! Individuals learn best in community. Online learners - we encourage you today to forge your community connections and keep them strong. Make the most of discussion connections in your courses with other students and the instructor. Just as importantly, bring what you are learning into your 'communities', wherever they  may be. Mutual encouragement, mutual inquiry, mutual growth -- these are as important in online learning as in the classroom. Don't go it alone!

 Hofstede, G. (2001). Cultures consequences: Comparing values, behaviors, institutions and organizations across nations (2nd ed.). Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage.

Pallof, R. and K. Pratt. (2007). Building Online Learning Communities (2nd ed.). San Fransisco: Jossey-Bass.