title: E-Model for Online Learning Communities.
abstract: OBJECTIVE
  The purpose of this study was to explore the students' perspectives on the phenomenon of online learning communities while enrolled in a graduate dental hygiene program.
  
  
  METHODS
  A qualitative case study method was designed to investigate the learners' experiences with communities in an online environment. A cross-sectional purposive sampling method was used. Interviews were the data collection method. As the original data were being analyzed, the researchers noted a pattern evolved indicating the phenomenon developed in stages. The data were re-analyzed and validated by 2 member checks.
  
  
  RESULTS
  The participants' experiences revealed an e-model consisting of 3 stages of formal learning community development as core courses in the curriculum were completed and 1 stage related to transmuting the community to an informal entity as students experienced the independent coursework in the program. The development of the formal learning communities followed 3 stages: Building a Foundation for the Learning Community, Building a Supportive Network within the Learning Community and Investing in the Community to Enhance Learning. The last stage, Transforming the Learning Community, signaled a transition to an informal network of learners. The e-model was represented by 3 key elements: metamorphosis of relationships, metamorphosis through the affective domain and metamorphosis through the cognitive domain, with the most influential element being the affective development.
  
  
  CONCLUSIONS
  The e-model describes a 4 stage process through which learners experience a metamorphosis in their affective, relationship and cognitive development. Synergistic learning was possible based on the interaction between synergistic relationships and affective actions.
authors.forename: Ellen J
authors.initials: EJ
authors.lastname: Rogo
authors.forename: Karen M
authors.initials: KM
authors.lastname: Portillo
mesh_terms: D003142:Communication; D003194:Computer-Assisted Instruction / Q000379:methods*; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D003479:Curriculum; D003756:Dental Hygienists / Q000193:education*; D004493:Education / Q000379:methods; D004499:Education, Dental, Graduate / Q000379:methods; D020375:Education, Distance / Q000379:methods*; D004500:Education, Graduate; D005178:Faculty; D005246:Feedback; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D020407:Internet; D007858:Learning; D008297:Male; D009042:Motivation; D009862:Online Systems; D016730:Program Development; D060756:Social Networking; D012944:Social Support; D013334:Students / Q000523:psychology; D013663:Teaching
keywords: dental hygienists/education; distance online systems; education; learning; program development; teaching/methods