Credit: Piazza, 2020
In GEOG 489: Advanced Python Programming for GIS, students work independently on programming tasks but are encouraged to use Piazza (integrated within Canvas) to hold related discussions with classmates. Here, students construct knowledge collaboratively as they assist one another, share perspectives and ideas, and answer each other’s questions. The informal and low-stakes environment (participation is optional) and the involvement of authentic, engaged instructors as collaborators check anxiety and isolation and foster a safe cognitive and social space.
Learning is a social activity, and interaction in a peer-supported environment can help make learning more durable and provide a transformational learning experience.
Above is an excerpt from the course discussion (names withheld).
Considerations
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