A sense of belonging arguably requires somewhere to belong to. We need to consider when we design the digital, the formal and informal, the personal and communal learning environments. Just as for our face-to-face students, these need to be developed holistically and purposely to reflect ways of being. We want to develop areas to foster belonging, setting clear expectations and developing good habits for learning together. Consider whether these spaces need to be on the institutional vle. What would be the advantages and disadvantages of students setting up their own area on e.g. whatsapp?

Example: Nigel develops a learning hub where students can meet informally and where students on the module can learn together. He calls this the café, making it clear to students this is for them. He also gives them information about setting up collaborate sessions between themselves.