You’ve certainly touched on some important factors linked to why I enjoyed and became an advocate for online learning, integrated tech in teaching and learning, and connecting people to purpose. Being ‘hungry’ for the opportunities that teaching with technology can bring is one way to ensure success. But not everyone knows what the ‘meal’ may be or even know what’s on the menu. Then it’s comfort, fit and variety that will keep teachers and learners coming back for more.

I agree that teaching online is very different than teaching F2F, and teaching with tech in F2F classrooms is also very different. Experiencing, seeing, playing, trying and making mistakes may not be optimal in higher ed teaching but it would work if there’s a guide or model. Those who have effective online courses should be visible, share their thinking, even when mistakes get made.

Your final question digs into my thinking about wayfinding – smells and aroma may lead people to the meal, image and presentation of the meal may entice them to try it, and the flavours will keep them at the table. All these are part of the wayfinding experience in digital learning spaces. Those who design digital learning/teaching places need to keep the full range of senses activated and engaged. Those who come to the table need to be open to the possibilities.