http://www.merlot.org:80/merlot/ A search of MERLOT materials Copyright 1997-2013 MERLOT. All rights reserved. Tue, 18 Jun 2013 17:15:54 PDT Tue, 18 Jun 2013 17:15:54 PDT http://www.merlot.org:80/merlot/images/merlot.gif http://www.merlot.org:80/merlot/ 44 34 http://www.merlot.org/merlot/viewMaterial.htm?id=515719 Download the supporting PDF file for this episode http://bit.ly/ijlL3g from the Learning to Teach Online project website.Engaging students in online learning is critical for success. In this episode, we speak with teachers and students about strategies for improving engagement and motivation in online learning environments. Effective facilitation, creating learning communities, strategies for motivating students, and encouraging and sustaining participation are discussed. http://www.merlot.org/merlot/viewMaterial.htm?id=734897 Although this guide is directed to individuals at Iowa State, some of the resources and guidlines would be helpful to anyone trying to organize a learning community. Their vision is 'To support Iowa State University’s commitment to student learning, the Learning Community initiative seeks to enhance our undergraduates’ experience by providing all interested students dynamic, focused communities in which students, staff, and faculty can learn and grow together.'