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Developing third places to foster sense of community in online instruction
Author(s) -
Aldosemani Tahani Ibrahim,
Shepherd Craig Erschel,
Gashim Ibrahim,
Dousay Tonia
Publication year - 2016
Publication title -
british journal of educational technology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.79
H-Index - 95
eISSN - 1467-8535
pISSN - 0007-1013
DOI - 10.1111/bjet.12315
Subject(s) - space (punctuation) , computer science , process (computing) , interpersonal communication , third party , knowledge management , sociology , internet privacy , social science , operating system
Using principles of O ldenburg's concept of third place to characterize sense of community, this paper establishes a framework for the creation of sustainable, informal learning communities that promote dialogue and interpersonal relationships. This paper discusses O ldenburg's theory of third place, presents a framework to implement online third place communities in educational settings, and offers examples, recommendations and implications for future research. This paper provides a framework for third place development in online learning environments. We propose that virtual third places can meet all criteria established by O ldenburg. The development of virtual third places only occurs over time and violations of third place characteristics are part of the development process. However, these violations should be eliminated over time through continuous evaluation, modification, and implementation of the space, users, activities and organizational needs, goals and resources.