A significant difference between online learning and traditional classroom experiences is that it is harder for students who are online to connect with their peers. Peer interactions are crucial **less because** they foster collaborative learning, critical thinking, and enhance overall student engagement **and more because** they increase the chance of learners meaningfully connecting with each other outside of the classroom. Real-world, in-person learning naturally offers the most extensive peer interaction, followed by synchronous online learning, with asynchronous formats lagging behind. But **asynchronous learning is flexible**, allowing learners to learn at their convenience. Unfortunately, **this flexibility does come at the cost of synchronous peer interactions**, which increase the chances of students connecting beyond the classroom. - **Project:** [[Live Discussions, Streamlined Grading - Thanks to AI]]