PT  - JOURNAL ARTICLE
AU  - Rogo, Ellen J.
AU  - Portillo, Karen M.
TI  - E-Model for Online Learning Communities
DP  - 2015 Oct 01
TA  - American Dental Hygienists Association
PG  - 293--304
VI  - 89
IP  - 5
4099  - http://jdh.adha.org/content/89/5/293.short
4100  - http://jdh.adha.org/content/89/5/293.full
SO  - J Dent Hyg2015 Oct 01; 89
AB  - Purpose: The purpose of this study was to explore the students' perspectives on the phenomenon of online learning communities while enrolled in a graduate dental hygiene program.Methods: A qualitative case study method was designed to investigate the learners' experiences with communities in an online environment. A cross-sectional purposive sampling method was used. Interviews were the data collection method. As the original data were being analyzed, the researchers noted a pattern evolved indicating the phenomenon developed in stages. The data were re-analyzed and validated by 2 member checks.Results: The participants' experiences revealed an e-model consisting of 3 stages of formal learning community development as core courses in the curriculum were completed and 1 stage related to transmuting the community to an informal entity as students experienced the independent coursework in the program. The development of the formal learning communities followed 3 stages: Building a Foundation for the Learning Community, Building a Supportive Network within the Learning Community and Investing in the Community to Enhance Learning. The last stage, Transforming the Learning Community, signaled a transition to an informal network of learners. The e-model was represented by 3 key elements: metamorphosis of relationships, metamorphosis through the affective domain and metamorphosis through the cognitive domain, with the most influential element being the affective development.Conclusion: The e-model describes a 4 stage process through which learners experience a metamorphosis in their affective, relationship and cognitive development. Synergistic learning was possible based on the interaction between synergistic relationships and affective actions.