MicroCoI: a synergistic approach to classroom learning

In the quest to enhance classroom learning experiences, educators and researchers continually seek innovative pedagogical strategies that foster engagement, collaboration, and deep understanding among students. This conceptual research paper introduces “MicroCoI”, a pioneering approach that combines the strengths of microlearning and the Community of Inquiry (CoI) framework to create a transformative and synergistic learning environment. Microlearning, characterized by bite-sized, focused content delivery, addresses the challenges of attention span and knowledge retention in the digital age. By providing short, targeted learning modules, students can engage with learning materials efficiently, making it conducive to today’s fast-paced educational landscape. The Community of Inquiry framework emphasizes the importance of social presence, cognitive presence, and teaching presence in fostering meaningful online interactions and promoting a sense of community in distance education. By integrating social interactions, critical thinking, and effective teaching methods, the CoI framework enriches the learning process. This conceptual research proposes an innovative integration of microlearning principles within the Community of Inquiry framework, giving rise to MicroCoI. This approach aims to harness the strengths of both microlearning’s targeted content delivery and the CoI framework’s focus on meaningful social and cognitive interactions. Through MicroCoI, learners engage in microlearning activities that support specific learning objectives. These experiences are complemented by dynamic online discussions, collaborative projects, and reflective exercises facilitated by skilled educators who foster a strong teaching presence. MicroCoI is designed to be versatile and applicable across diverse educational settings, from traditional classrooms to blended and fully online learning environments. By integrating microlearning and the CoI framework, it fosters a deeper sense of community, enhances information retention, and cultivates critical thinking skills among learners. In conclusion, MicroCoI offers a promising avenue for transforming classroom learning experiences. By capitalizing on the synergy between microlearning and the Community of Inquiry framework, this innovative approach has the potential to revolutionize pedagogy, promote student engagement, and pave the way for a more effective and enriching learning journey. Future research and implementation studies will further explore the efficacy of MicroCoI, leading to a learner-centered, collaborative, and technologydriven educational landscape.