A Learner-Centered, Emotionally Engaging Approach to Online Learning
Wednesday, July 22nd, 2009by Rob Kelly, Online Classroom, June 2009
Learning research shows people learn better in the presence of some emotional connection to content or people. Rick Van Sant, of Ferris State University says, “One of the things we know about learning is that learning with emotion is a far deeper experience than learning without emotion.” Technology provides access to a vast array of content that has the potential to resonate emotionally with students. Van Sant recommends that you might like to visit Technology, Entertainment, Design, www.ted.org which features top presenters talking on a wide range of topics.
Keeping that “teachable moment” online in an asynchronous online class is difficult. Create an emotional connection by using a wiki or a blog. Remember to create a learning community.
Rick Van Sant can be reached by email, rickvansant@ferris.edu.

