ENHANCING ONLINE STUDENT ENGAGEMENT WITH EXTRACURRICULAR ACTIVITIES

Abstract

Engaging non-traditional, adult, online students can be a challenge, but a variety of extracurricular activities can serve to increase their interest in their education and enhance their learning.Lacking the opportunity for 'on-campus' interactions and the traditional 'Student Union' environment, online universities must provide virtual environments that invite collaboration and extracurricular activities that support student interaction and engagement.The use of content related clubs that include faculty mentors, subject matter experts, and interactive activities can be effective.The introduction of competitions and game play related to coursework can also provide the desired engagement and commitment to the academic programs and institution.The rapidly growing industry of EdTech supports the agenda of all educators who seek these innovative ways to engage and impart knowledge to a diverse population of learners.