Collaboration in Online Learning

Description
This week we studied quite a bit of information regarding the elements of collaboration in an Online Learning Environment (OLE). Now I am left to determine whether or not  I will be including these elements in my OLE.

Impact
This week I have been considering the development of my OLE.  I believe that including the element of discussion will be an integral part of the OLE that I am planning to create.  My plan is to develop an OLE outside of Springboard that will provide the students an opportunity to engage and participate in activities relating to the Colombian Exchange.    This is a topic that is covered extensively in our Cultural Dimensions of Food course.  The age range of these learners are Juniors and Seniors, with some occasional Sophomores in the Food and Environmental Nutrition program at the University of Akron.  

Using the the element of active learning and discussion, I believe will allow students to truly learn from and engage with one another, rather than simply gaining information from lecture, articles, and textbooks.  Since this topic is a thread throughout the entire course it is important that students fully understand and are able to refer back to the impact that the Colombian Exchange has had on our food system.  I believe that sometimes information can be retained more easily when students can engage in peer discussions and activities.  

Intent
My plan at this time is to search out the most effective environment to facilitate what it is I am trying to accomplish.  I have looked into Google Classrooms, Zunal, WebQuest, Wiki, and a variety of other formats that will assist me in delivering and implementing the right OLE for the students to engage.  I will really need to get a grasp on the layout of information and activities that I will expect the students to accomplish before making the final choice concerning the online format.