OOLA Loop: Nurturing Open Learning in Online Communities
Introduction
As technology advances, it is inevitable that online communities will expand in both scope and impact. In this evolving landscape, the principles of accessibility, inclusivity, transparency, and knowledge sharing become key enablers of effective learning. Accessibility ensures that learning resources are available to all, regardless of their geographical location or socioeconomic status. Inclusivity promotes a learning culture where diverse perspectives are welcomed and valued, enriching the collective knowledge pool. Transparency fosters trust and openness, allowing contributors to critically engage with content and participate more fully in the learning process. Knowledge sharing, on the other hand, cultivates a collaborative spirit, encouraging the exchange of ideas.
Unlearning, defined as the process of questioning, reassessing, and potentially discarding previously held beliefs or practices to embrace new, more pertinent or accurate information, plays a crucial role. By applying these principles, we can create an environment conducive to both learning and unlearning. The OOLA loop, inspired by the OODA loop (Observe, Orient, Decide, Act), introduces a cycle of Observe, Orientate, Learn, and Apply for digital learning communities. This model aims to cultivate a learning culture through active engagement and active learning. Active engagement fosters a participatory learning environment, whereas active learning emphasises the cognitive processes crucial for constructing knowledge.
O: Observe
In the first phase of the OOLA loop, participants are encouraged to actively observe and gather information from diverse sources, including research papers, discussions, and insights shared by others. Observation in this context should not be considered passive. To encourage engagement, specific methods could include annotation of resources, journaling of new concepts, and formulation of questions. Participants are encouraged to critically analyse resources and evaluate their validity and relevance.
O: Orientate
In this phase, participants contextualise and integrate new information with existing knowledge and experience. Orientating is crucial for making sense of observed data, identifying patterns, and establishing connections. It fosters a deeper understanding, enabling participants to navigate complex topics and appreciate the subject matter. To facilitate this process, mapping and counter-mapping can be utilised.
L: Learn
This stage emphasises active and reflective learning, encouraging participants to engage with the material, participate in collaborative activities, and apply critical thinking. The focus is not on memorisation, but on understanding, shared reflection and the identification of lingering questions.
领英推荐
A: Apply (Adapt)
The final stage involves modifying beliefs, changing perspectives, and refining skills based on evolving knowledge. At the individual level, this phase can be documented through presentations, blogging, mapmaking and simulations. At the community level, collaborative projects become a medium for adapting culture and norms over time, ensuring a learning community remains relevant and inclusive.
Benefits of Adopting the OOLA Perspective
Adopting the OOLA loop (Observe, Orientate, Learn, Apply) in online learning communities has the following potential benefits:
- Dynamic Learning Environment: It creates a responsive learning space where participants are active contributors, not just passive recipients
- Inclusivity and Lifelong Learning: It fosters collaborative information foraging and critical thinking, contributing to personal and collective development. By promoting active engagement and a participatory learning environment, the OOLA loop ensures that all voices are heard and valued, regardless of their background or experience level. This inclusivity not only enriches the learning experience for all members but also contributes to the creation of a supportive and collaborative community.
The participatory ethos of the OOLA loop ensures that learning is a collective endeavour, empowering each member of the community to play an active role in their own education and the education of others, thereby creating a resilient open learning ecosystem.
Potential Next Step
Identify a minimum set of strong and weak protocols to support the OOLA loop.