Power and Relationship in the Virtual Classroom

This study explores the nature of relationship and power incollege online course work, and the mediating effect of electronictechnology on these human dynamics. Though many educationalresearchers have explored relationship and power in theface-to-face classroom, there has been little exploration of thesedynamic in the virtual classroom. Findings of this study suggestthat the majority of people participate in online courses forpractical reasons, particularly convenience and flexibility. Butthey also have expectations of relationship. Given theseexpectations of human connection, the relational presence ofinstructors and students was a major factor in productive courseengagement. The findings also suggest that the electronictechnology that mediates interaction in online course work has asignificant impact on participants ability to form effectiverelationships and to exert influence. This study should be usefulfor instructors and online course designers, as well as studentsconsidering online coursework in pursuit of their degrees. It willchallenge the reader to consider the importance of human dynamicsin the electronically-mediated teaching and learning.