Resurrecting Graduate Conversation through an Online Learning Community

Abstract

This article reports on action research that implementsonline learning community (OLC) software to fosterconversation at a specific graduate school. The design of the research is informed by theories of conversation, onlinelearning, and social networking, as well as by popular Web 2.0 technologies. A distinguishing feature of this application is that it is oriented toward and controlled by individuals rather than being centered on courses. Results indicate that stakeholders—graduate students and faculty—appreciate and find value in the OLC we implemented.