Sense of Belonging and Being Present

Sandra Guzman Foster, Director of the Center for Teaching and Learning at University of the Incarnate Word

In the ever-evolving landscape of digital education, particularly in higher education, the role of interactive technology, supportive environments, and fostering a sense of belonging cannot be overstated. As our world becomes increasingly digitized and, at times, more fragmented, these elements become crucial in bridging gaps and ensuring that digital college classrooms are not just a place of learning but a space of community and personal growth.

The importance of 'being present' in an online classroom is a multifaceted concept. It's not just about students logging into a platform; it's about engaging them in a way that feels inclusive and meaningful. Faculty play a pivotal role in this process. By being actively involved in discussions, providing timely feedback, and showing genuine interest in students' perspectives, educators can create a learning atmosphere that is both welcoming and intellectually stimulating. This presence helps build rapport with students, making them feel seen and heard, a crucial aspect in a world where digital interactions can often feel impersonal.

Once students feel seen and heard, faculty who take it a step further and implement student-led activities bring a whole different level to the digital learning space. For example, assigning student-led discussion posts provides an environment where deeper learning takes place.

Let’s face it: Sometimes, students know how to reach each other in unique ways using “student language.”

Additionally, using an interactive technology tool such as Flip provides a platform for students to respond creatively to their peers.

Other tools, such as virtual whiteboards and collaborative platforms like Google Docs or breakout rooms in Zoom, enable a dynamic learning environment in which students need to feel a sense of belonging. Faculty who choose to participate in student-led activities are sending the message of “I am a learner too;’ humanizing the professor in a digital space. These technologies can cater to different learning styles and encourage active participation. For instance, introverted students might find it easier to express themselves as avatars or emojis when using Flip or they may favor chat-based discussions rather than speaking out loud when in a Zoom session. By leveraging such tools, faculty can create diverse pathways for engagement, ensuring that every student finds a comfortable mode of participation and feels a sense of belonging. When they see the faculty member participating, it creates a learning environment where the faculty’s presence does not go unnoticed.

"When students work together, they learn from each other, gaining different perspectives and enhancing their interpersonal skills."

Creating opportunities for student interactions is also critical for a successful digital classroom. People are inherently social. Unfortunately, living through a pandemic has left lasting impacts on students who may not want to engage and choose to remain unseen and visible by name only.

Group projects, peer review sessions, and online study groups can foster a sense of community and collaboration. When students work together, they learn from each other, gaining different perspectives and enhancing their interpersonal skills. This collaboration is particularly important in a fractured world as it brings together individuals from diverse backgrounds, fostering understanding and empathy.

Creating an online environment where students feel a sense of belonging and where faculty is present are perhaps the most crucial elements. This can be achieved through inclusive teaching practices, acknowledging and celebrating students, and creating spaces where students can share their experiences. When students feel like they belong, their engagement and motivation levels increase, leading to better academic outcomes and personal well-being.

In conclusion, the digital college classroom, when designed thoughtfully, has the potential to be a powerful space for learning. By being present, leveraging interactive technology, providing support, creating student-led opportunities, facilitating student interaction, and creating a sense of belonging, faculty can not only overcome the challenges posed by a fractured world but also enrich the educational experience in profound ways. This holistic approach is not just about academic success; it's about nurturing well-rounded individuals who are equipped to thrive in an increasingly complex and digitalized world.