Learning Activities and Interactions

This set of online course characteristics emphasizes engaging, learner-centered activities and structured interaction that intentionally support the achievement of course objectives.

It highlights active, real-world learning for adult learners, clear expectations for communication and participation, and regular, meaningful interaction supported by clear instructions and multiple communication channels.

Learning Activities and Interactions Characteristics

Andragogical Design Principles

Principles of andragogy are considered in the design of activities and interactions (e.g., learner-instructor, learner-learner, and learner-content).

Adult Learners, Andragogy

Resource(s) and Consideration(s):

Consider designing activities that are relevant, self-directed, and connected to learners’ prior experiences (What Is Andragogy?), while intentionally supporting learner-instructor, learner-learner, and learner-content interaction through teaching, social, and cognitive presence (The Community of Inquiry: About the Framework

Note: If you have a resource you think would be a good example of this characteristic, please complete this form.

Active Learning Activities Provided

Opportunities for active learning are provided.

Adult Learners, Andragogy

Resource(s) and Consideration(s):

Cornell University- Center for Teaching Innovation - Active Learning provides examples of active learning strategies.

Note: If you have a resource you think would be a good example of this characteristic, please complete this form.

Real-World Applications for Learning Activities

Learning activities that have real world applications of the content (e.g., experiential learning, case studies, problem-based scenarios, critical reflection and analysis, higher order thinking) are included.

Adult Learners, Andragogy

Resource(s) and Consideration(s):

Real-world learning activities can increase student engagement and deepen understanding by allowing learners to apply knowledge in authentic and meaningful contexts.
You can include Authentic, Active Learning Strategies when designing authentic learning experiences. The resource provides the value of authentic learning and examples of active learning strategies.

Note: If you have a resource you think would be a good example of this characteristic, please complete this form.

Variety of Communication Channels

A variety of communication channels (e.g., office hours, feedback, announcements) are incorporated into the course design.

Communication

Resource(s) and Consideration(s):

Provide examples of high-quality discussion posts or peer interactions to model expectations. You can find examples in Communication Strategies to Foster Engagement in Online Courses.

Note: If you have a resource you think would be a good example of this characteristic, please complete this form.

Expectations for Student Interactions

Requirements and expectations for student interactions (i.e., instructor-student, student-student, and student-content) are clearly stated, easy to find, and modeled.

Communication

Resource(s) and Consideration(s):

Under Items to Have in Your Syllabus and course-related Communication, you can find guidance and language tips for crafting clearer and more effective messages to students.

Note: If you have a resource you think would be a good example of this characteristic, please complete this form.

Regular and Substantive Interaction

Regular and substantive interaction that is predictable and scheduled is designed into the course.

Communication

Resource(s) and Consideration(s):

Regular and substantive interaction can be supported through clear communication expectations, timely feedback, discussion opportunities, structured deadlines, and proactive check-ins with students. This website offers additional examples and practical tips for implementation.

Note: If you have a resource you think would be a good example of this characteristic, please complete this form.

Clear, Detailed Instructions

All assignments, activities, and assessments include clear, detailed, and well-written instructions.

Communication

Resource(s) and Consideration(s):

OSCQR – Standard #16 – OSCQR – SUNY Online Course Quality Review Rubric.
Include estimated completion time and recommended preparation steps for activities.
Consider including FAQ, exemplars, templates, or short tutorial videos for complex assignments.
Use consistent formatting and terminology across assignment instructions to reduce confusion.

Note: If you have a resource you think would be a good example of this characteristic, please complete this form.

Questions or Comments?

Contact AU Online Education at auoe@augusta.edu with any questions or comments you might have.