The teacher has the responsibility for facilitating learning through discussions of content and assisting in managing group collaboration. The design of the learning tasks alone strengthens the interaction among the students. Too often, students are not familiar with this type of learning. Traditionally, students are not encouraged to reflect and explore content beyond what is presented in class by the teacher. Even in cases where learner initiative is encouraged, the time limits imposed on traditional classes eliminates effective collaborative learning.
Students are quite capable of constructing knowledge with the guidance of the teacher.
This means turning over control of learning to the students and is a necessity in online learning. As online teachers, we set up an environment that provides students with the resources for independent exploration. Online communication provides opportunities for interaction that is not readily available in traditional f2f classrooms. Learners in online classes have the opportunity to and freedom to explore alternative pathways to knowledge and develop their own learning styles. Strategies such as debates, role play, discussion groups, simulation, brain-storming, written assignments, collaborative projects, etc., all play a part in promoting interaction and communication among students and therefore, increases the potential for learning.