Virtual Space

Emma Gollner

As I sit at my computer waiting for the virtual classroom to open, I feel like I am staring into a void. Finally, when the online room opens, names pop up and microphones turn off. While my Wi-Fi connection is strong, I have never felt so disconnected.

When classes transitioned to online delivery, the BCIT community suffered immensely. One major loss was informal social exchanges between peers. As opportunities and potential avenues to career goals are often passed through word-of-mouth, it is difficult for isolated students to know what is happening and many students may feel out of the loop. By sharing space, like a classroom, to talk to peers and instructors, students can get a better understanding of course

requirements, how marks are assigned, program progression, and ultimately, a better overall sense of direction.

Meeting in person is a decisive factor in student success. However, the Learning Hub was not ready to be at the center for communication when BCIT classes abruptly transitioned online. While the Hub serves a purpose, it is hardly the lifeblood of our education. The discussion board often gets neglected; it feels as though one is sending a message into space rather than to another person. On the other hand, meeting online provided a check-in point for students during the pandemic, even if it was just for attendance. Students tend to be more engaged in courses with scheduled meetup times, even if they were completing assignments in their pyjamas.

Further, the seemingly mundane conversations in Bongo’s break-out rooms also serve a purpose. I have found that meeting synchronously with peers is monumentally helpful when there is a common objective, such as evaluating each other’s projects during the early stages of completion. Using break-out rooms in this way would allow students to share what they have been working on and to get feedback from peers. It is also a way to share strategies and maintain a positive outlook toward the course.

Is connecting with peers enough to empower students beyond the classroom? Transitioning from the classroom to the workforce is daunting, and it takes hard work to find a foothold. One way to approach the industry as a professional is to develop connections. Networking sites like LinkedIn are far more approachable when one has pre-existing contacts from BCIT.

All in all, despite BCIT's effort to reach students from a distance, the Learning Hub has its limitations, and the full potential of remote learning has not been reached. To enhance these digital platforms, we need to understand what is missing from online education and what tools are needed to improve the experience. It is also crucial for students to take advantage of every opportunity to connect. Online learning can only be effective if we maintain an open mind and stay invested in our futures.