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The format for this course is unique. It uses the Unite Model in which cases are presented for your discussion. 

All of the course learning activities will take place within the discussion format of the course inside a password protected virtual computer conference center using software from "Caucus".

At times, participants may need further information to continue with the case questions. Resources may be suggested or participants will be invited to locate information needed by using online resources. Given the online format of the course, it is expected that participants may easily locate information needed and report this information back to their team.

Participants will be placed into teams to encourage the flow of discussions. Facilitators or moderators will be online as well. In a case based learning environment, facilitators have a different role from that of a traditional "teacher". Their role will be to assist and monitor the flow of conversations, redirect if necessary and to ask questions that may assist a group in moving forward. Participants will be encouraged to discuss issues, ideas, solutions, etc. in as much depth as they require. Because participants have several choices of cases in the course, it is anticipated that team membership will be flexible.

• The Module will open with the moderator presenting a Story Profile (Topic Background/Case Scenario).

• The Story Profile will be followed by a brief Lecture-style format in which the facilitator brings in Supporting Evidence that is intended to strengthen the Story Profile.

• The Lecture-format will be followed by a Facilitated Dialogue that builds upon the Story Profile or Case Scenario and its supporting information.

• The Facilitated Dialogue will be followed by participant-centered Activities designed to illicit information related to the Case Scenario drawn from the participants own experience.

Participants will spend approximately 2-3 hours on line per week, similar to that which a student would spend in a lecture. The unique feature of an online format is that participants may spend that time in any way they choose; perhaps spending 30 minutes one day; 20 minutes the next and 60 minutes at another time. Another feature is that given the participant centered nature of the course, it is anticipated that teams may move more quickly through some question or may wish to spend additional time on others.

All participants will pace themselves; it will be important, however, to begin and end cases according to the posted schedule. This will allow all participants to contribute to cases and respond to questions.

Following completion of the course, we will request your evaluation feedback about format, cases, discussions and participants’ satisfaction with this course. This will assist us in making necessary changes to the course for future offerings.

Assignments

The basic requirement for participation in this course is just that, participation. Participants will be asked to respond to questions, to reflect upon issues and to share their own knowledge and expertise with their team members.

Online Case Discussions at the Virtual Conference Center