Canadian post-secondary institutions have increasingly shifted to online and hybrid education in recent years in response to evolving educational needs and technological advancements (Canadian Digital Learning Research Association, 2023). This shift offers flexibility and accessibility for both instructors and students, but it also presents challenges in fostering engagement, motivation, and active participation. One of the key factors contributing to these challenges is the varying levels of digital literacy among diverse students, which can impede their ability to effectively navigate and fully participate in online learning environments.

This session will focus on improving students' digital literacy skills to enhance online engagement. By exploring practical strategies for using online discussion forums within Learning Management Systems (LMS) as a case study, this session will address engagement barriers and promote meaningful interaction in digital learning spaces.

In this 45-minute session, participants will explore real-world examples of how improved digital literacy has positively impacted students’ collaborative learning and active participation. Specifically, they will investigate how developing students' digital competencies leads to more meaningful and interactive online discussions. Moreover, participants will have the opportunity to reflect on their own teaching contexts, exchange ideas with peers, and discuss practical solutions to common engagement challenges.

This session is designed for instructors, instructional designers, and anyone involved in creating effective online learning environments. By the end of the session, participants will gain a clear understanding of the connections between digital literacy and online engagement, along with practical tools, strategies, and techniques to implement in their own courses. The session draws on current research and real-world examples to provide valuable insights into improving digital literacy and enhancing online engagement in post-secondary education.

Wanqi Jin

WanQi Jin

Learning Technology Specialist, Simon Fraser University

WanQi (Belinda) Jin is a learning technology specialist at Simon Fraser University (SFU) Lifelong Learning and a doctoral student in Learning Sciences at the University of Calgary, With over eight years of experience in instructional design and educational technology, she specializes in online and blended learning. She is certified in various learning technology tools. Her research focuses on active learning strategies in asynchronous online courses, focusing on design, assessment, and interactions. Committed to equity and inclusion, she aims to foster meaningful, accessible, and engaging online learning environments.

Technology Track