Queen Margaret University

4. Sense of belonging

The key aspects to creating a sense of belonging are:

Philosophy social constructivist online community-based – collegiate supportive
Attitude of tutors- friendly and supportive
Activities to be relevant for learners in their professional roles
Regular synchronous sessions (programme/module) plus tools for learners to have their own meetings without tutors
Group work (formal and informal)
Extensive use of discussions
Heavy use of Personal Academic Tutor
Extensive use of audio and video feedback for tutor communications, short introductions and formative and summative assessment
Online student representation
Librarian involvement in a/synchronous sessions
Variety of modes for communications with tutors
Ensuring reading materials are accessible