Online Teaching Community of Practice (OCoP)
A is a group of individuals with shared interests who come together to collaborate, learn, and grow as a collective. CoPs support peer-to-peer learning, encourage innovative thinking, and help members achieve individual and group goals through shared experiences and expertise.
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The Online Teaching Community of Practice (OCoP) at CU Boulder provides a collaborative space for educators and staff to explore best practices in online education. Led by CU Boulder’s Online Education Team, OCoP brings together experts and practitioners to share insights, tackle challenges, and foster continuous improvement in online teaching and learning.
Partner Organizations
OCoP is supported by a partnership among key campus organizations, including:
- Academic and Learning Innovation (ALI)
- Center for Teaching & Learning (CTL)
- Division of Continuing Education (CE)
- Office of Information Technology (OIT)
Our Mission
The mission of OCoP is to:
- Highlight Innovation: Showcase teaching and learning practices that are shaping online education at CU Boulder.
- Foster Collaboration: Build trusted relationships through open dialogue and peer-driven support.
- Tackle Challenges Together: Provide a forum for sharing strategies, addressing issues, and finding solutions collaboratively.
- Promote Student-Centered Design: Focus on innovative, flexible, and inclusive course design that prioritizes student success.
- Encourage Growth and Experimentation: Offer space for exploration and experimentation with emerging technologies and online teaching methods.
OCoP is not just another meeting—it’s a dynamic network designed to inspire collaboration, spark innovation, and support educators at every stage of their online teaching journey.
Who Should Join?
OCoP welcomes anyone in the CU Boulder community with an interest in online education, including:
- Faculty Members – Enhance teaching strategies and connect with colleagues.
- Program Directors and Administrators – Explore ways to scale programs and support faculty development.
- Instructional Designers and Support Staff – Contribute expertise in course design and online tools.
- Student Educators and Advocates – Learn how to better support student engagement and success.
Whether you're new to online education or a seasoned practitioner, OCoP provides opportunities to:
- Learn from Peers: Exchange ideas, case studies, and real-world applications.
- Stay Informed: Access resources, updates, and research on emerging trends.
- Collaborate Across Disciplines: Work with educators and professionals from diverse backgrounds.
What Does Participation Look Like?
Participation in OCoP is adaptable and flexible, designed to meet the evolving needs of its members. The structure accommodates different schedules and preferences, providing both synchronous and asynchronous opportunities for engagement.
Options for Engagement:
- Focused Affinity Groups: Dive into specific topics related to online teaching, such as equity in virtual classrooms or technology integration.
- Broader Community Connections: Collaborate with peers to share resources, brainstorm ideas, and problem-solve challenges in a supportive environment.
- Remote-Friendly Format: Most participation opportunities are remote or hybrid, ensuring accessibility and flexibility for all members.
OCoP is structured to evolve with its participants, offering a balance of guided discussions, independent projects, and collaborative brainstorming sessions throughout the year.
What to Expect
Regular Gatherings
- Monthly Meetings: Engage in thematic discussions, workshops, and collaborative planning.
- Special Events: Attend guest speaker presentations and panel discussions featuring experts in online education.
- Project Spotlights: Learn from real-world case studies highlighting successful online teaching strategies.
Resources and Tools
- Curated Resources: Access templates, toolkits, and guides to support course development.
- Shared Best Practices: Learn about effective strategies for student engagement, assessment, and active learning.
- Innovative Technologies: Explore new tools and technologies to enhance online learning.
Community Support
- Consultations: Get personalized support from CTL and OIT experts.
- Networking Opportunities: Build relationships with colleagues across campus.
- Feedback Loops: Provide and receive feedback on ideas and projects to strengthen course designs.
Why Join OCoP?
- Stay Ahead of Trends: Keep up with the latest advancements in online education.
- Build Collaborative Networks: Form meaningful connections with other educators and innovators.
- Improve Student Success: Learn how to design engaging and inclusive courses that support student learning.
- Share and Learn: Gain access to a supportive environment where knowledge and resources are freely exchanged.