Christopher Badgett talks with BuddyPress expert Michael Eisenwasser in this LMScast episode. Michael runs BuddyBoss.com, and he’s here to discuss how to build online social learning environments using BuddyPress.
BuddyPress lets you expand the eLearning experience with a dynamic Facebook-style interactive space. The LifterLMS course development platform offers built-in BuddyPress integration so you can easily include social learning in your course design. And BuddyPress is fully customizable to your specific needs.
You can emulate the classroom experience in your online learning environment, or employ blended learning by combining online coursework with in-person class meetings. Social learning also makes interactive education available to students who don’t have physical access to a classroom. Providing a social element is especially helpful for teaching niche subjects, and beneficial for students who are unfamiliar with online learning.
There are extra administrative tasks for social learning environments, such as promoting and building your community, setting access permissions, eliminating spam, and moderating group discussions and activities. But with planning and implementation you will be able to support a thriving social network of fully engaged eLearners.
BuddyPress is a free, open source WordPress plugin, and Michael encourages course developers to download it and discover all it has to offer. Once you learn how to build online social learning environments, you’ll realize just how valuable they can be to your online course offerings.
