Receiving helpful feedback, being supported to learn in an online environment, and feeling part of a learning community have been key features of how we evaluate student satisfaction at the University of Sydney since the move to online teaching. But units designed around group work face an array of specific challenges in online and hybrid learning environments, including how to overcome student social isolation, and technical and interpersonal barriers to effective communication. How can we create a learning environment where students can develop effective communication skills, actively participate in peer-learning and build a sense of collegiality regardless of the mode of delivery? This presentation outlines an interactive peer feedback activity based on Edward de Bono’s Six Thinking Hats technique that draws students out from their online ‘shells’, fosters parallel thinking, builds students’ capacity to provide constructive feedback, and helps develop a mutually supportive cohort.
Teaching@Sydney