Incorporating Vicarious Learning Experiences into Online Courses

Audience Level: 
All
Institutional Level: 
Higher Ed
Abstract: 

Vicarious learning is based on the concept that students can understand course material through observing other students’ learning experiences. In online classes, the opportunity to observe classmates asking questions and getting corrections is typically limited. This session will cover creating, utilizing, and assessing vicarious learning lessons in online courses.

Extended Abstract: 

This session will discuss the results of implementing vicarious learning in several online courses. The courses included HPS 600 Research Methods (online), HPS 601 Interpretation of Data (online), and FYS 101 First Year Seminar (online or face-to-face). The online courses have a series of modules that students can complete at their own pace. The vicarious learning lessons were integrated into lectures and assignments within these modules. These lessons included video answers to student sample questions, feedback on writing assignments, and solutions to common student mistakes.  The presenters will describe useful software, lesson creation, and the production of vicarious learning materials in various formats. 

By the end of the session, attendees will be able to:

  1. Define vicarious learning.
  2. Recognize how vicarious learning could be utilized in their existing courses.
  3. Identify useful software or other media for production of vicarious learning lessons.
Conference Track: 
Teaching and Learning Practice
Session Type: 
Emerging Ideas Session
Intended Audience: 
Faculty
Instructional Support