One common criqiue of online learning is the lack of shared physical space – the absence of a classroom and the sense of placelessness that accompanies distributed learning. However, the truth is that online learning is not placeless. Online learning is placeful. Every student who engages in online learning is simultaneously inhabiting physical space. And that space may impact how they (you!) learn.

For this activity, I want you to be deliberate about your learning places. Chose a place that is significant to you. This might be a certain room in your home. Or the couch that you love. Or a corner of your favourite cafe. Or even a quiet spot along a hiking trail. Find this spot and take your learning with you. Complete one of the readings for this course in this place. Or participate in your Critical Inquiry Discussion from here.

Reflect on if/how the act of engaging in learning practice was different in this space. Was it easier? Harder? Did you think differently about the content or the questions? How did you feel?

For your submission, you will submit details on the place that you chose. This could be a picture, a drawing or painting, a verbal description (text or audio). You will also submit your reflection on the experience of learning here and blurring the boundaries between “formal” learning spaces and a place that is personally significant to you. There will be a channel in Mattermost where you will be invited (not required) to share your places with each other. 

In your Learning Portfolio, make sure to also include a short self-reflection on why you chose this activity, how it aligned with your learning goals, and what you learned by deliberately reflecting on place and how it connects to online learning.