Lawrence Nyakurimwa Induction Module 47227 (R2305D16579999)

What is the role of students in online courses?
Reflecting upon your own experience

as a student on a self-paced online module and bringing in other examples from
academic literature, discuss the main responsibilities of students undertaking an
online module and suggest ways in which students can co-create an active learning
environment.
Lawrence Nyakurimwa
R2305D16579999
Induction Module
UOS-IND-M-100-47227
3 September 2023
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INTRODUCTION
As a student in an online course, my experience and academic literature suggest that
there are several key responsibilities that students have when undertaking an online
module. According to Boettcher, (2009), online learning is a set of instructional
experiences using the digital network for interaction, learning, and dialogue. An online
course does not require any face-to-face meetings in a physical location. These
responsibilities include actively engaging in the learning process, managing their time
effectively, seeking support when needed, and participating in discussions and
collaborative activities. Students can co-create an active learning environment by
taking initiatives such as actively participating in online forums, engaging in peer
collaboration, setting personal goals, and being proactive in their learning journey.
Juny (2008) advised that students are expected to put into action a number of skills
and competencies which, although existing in onsite learning as an option or an asset
for onsite students, they become a must for online learners.
Participating in discussions and collaborative activities is another important

responsibility of online students. By actively engaging in discussions, students can
deepen their understanding of the course material, exchange ideas with their peers,
and develop critical thinking and communication skills. Collaborative activities, such
as group projects or peer reviews, provide opportunities for students to learn from each
other and contribute to a shared learning experience.
Setting personal goals is another responsibility that students should take seriously in
an online course. By setting specific and achievable goals, students can stay
motivated and focused throughout the course. These goals can be academic, such as
achieving a certain grade or mastering specific skills, or personal, such as improving
time management or developing self-discipline. By taking ownership of their learning
journey and setting goals, students can more effectively monitor their progress and
success.
One of the primary responsibilities of students in online courses is to actively engage

in the learning process. Unlike traditional classroom settings, online modules require
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students to take more ownership of their learning. This involves reading course
materials, watching lectures, and completing assignments. Actively engaging with the
content requires students to focus and comprehend the material at their own pace.
They can also take notes, summarize key points, and engage in reflective thinking to
deepen their understanding.
Time management is another crucial responsibility for students in online modules.

Self-paced courses require students to manage their time effectively to meet deadlines
and stay on track with the course schedule. Without a set class time, students need to
create a schedule that allocates sufficient time for studying, submitting assignments,
and participating in discussions. Effective time management skills involve setting
goals, prioritizing tasks, and maintaining discipline to avoid procrastination. Ayİşman
et al. (2004) advised that students are self-responsible for their own learning. They
should decide what they want to learn, establish their goal, research, and develop their
subject.
Seeking support when needed is also important for students in online courses.
Although instructors are typically available to provide guidance, it is the student's
responsibility to actively seek support when facing challenges or needing clarification.
This can be done through email, online forums, or virtual office hours. Being proactive
in seeking support ensures that students can overcome obstacles and progress in
their learning. “Learners should have an understanding of the instructor’s role as a
facilitator or a guide.” (Vonderwell,2004).
Moreover, students should actively participate in discussions and collaborative

activities to co-create an active learning environment. Online courses often have
discussion forums or group projects where students can interact with their peers.
Actively participating in discussions can involve sharing ideas, asking questions, and
providing constructive feedback to others. Collaborative activities can also enhance
the learning experience by fostering teamwork and promoting the exchange of diverse
perspectives.
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To co-create an active learning environment, students can take initiatives such as
starting discussions, organising study groups, or creating online study resources. For
example, creating a study group on a platform like Slack can facilitate peer
collaboration and discussion. In addition, students can set personal goals to motivate
themselves and track their progress. This can involve setting targets for completing
modules, acquiring certain skills, or achieving specific grades. Setting personal goals
can keep students focused and engaged in their learning journey.
In conclusion, students in online courses have several responsibilities to ensure their

success. These responsibilities include actively engaging in the learning process,
managing time effectively, seeking support when needed, and participating in
discussions and collaborative activities. By taking initiatives like actively participating
in online forums, engaging in peer collaboration, setting personal goals, and being
proactive in seeking support, students can co-create an active learning environment
and maximize their learning outcomes.
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References:
Boettcher.J.V (2009). Encyclopedia-distance-learning(second edition).

https://www.igi-global.com/book/encyclopedia-distance-learning-second-edition/352
Borges.F.(2008). THE ROLE OF THE ONLINE LEARNER: ONSITE STUDENTS

BECOMING ONLINE LEARNERS. UOC – Universitat Oberta de Catalunya.
https://dugi-doc.udg.edu/bitstream/handle/10256/994/189.pdf?sequence=1
İşman, A., Dabaj,F.,Altinay,F. & Altınay,A (2004). Roles of the Students and
Teachers in Distance Education. International Journal of Instructional Technology
and Distance Learning. https://www.itdl.org/Journal/May_04/article05.htm
Vonderwell. S., & Savery.J. (2004). ONLINE LEARNING: STUDENT ROLE AND
READINESS. The Turkish Online Journal of Educational Technology – TOJET,
3(3),5. https://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ1101894.pdf
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What is the role of students in online courses?

Reflecting upon your own experience

Participating in discussions and collaborative activities is another important

One of the primary responsibilities of students in online courses is to actively engage

Time management is another crucial responsibility for students in online modules.

Moreover, students should actively participate in discussions and collaborative

In conclusion, students in online courses have several responsibilities to ensure their

Boettcher.J.V (2009). Encyclopedia-distance-learning(second edition).

Borges.F.(2008). THE ROLE OF THE ONLINE LEARNER: ONSITE STUDENTS

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