In this episode, I focus on digital communities with Katy Kappler. Why do we need them and how can it increase student completion rates in distance education?
The potential of technology in education is so great that there is a steady increase in the number of online courses available in higher education every year. Distance education is an effective tool with the capability to enhance learning experiences with the added benefit of flexibility.
However, completion rates for online courses are surprisingly low. 40-80% of online learners just give up. How could such an effective education model fail to go the distance to completion and why do college students drop them? Data suggests that motivation, technical issues, and lack of support are the three major reasons.
Katy offers insights into how digital communities can be used to create student-centered environments, improve student outcomes, and increase a sense of belonging for online students. She was named one of 144 women CEOs and founders of Leading Global EdTech Startups in March. Katy is the CEO and Co-founder of InScribe, an innovative digital community platform, slated to be one of the world's most promising ed tech startups. To learn more, go to www.inscribeapp.com.
The call to action is that distance education is not a "lone wolf" experience. Digital communities create a greater sense of belonging and improve student success. Use them if you have them, get them if you don't. It may be the difference between completing that online course and not.
