What does "community of learners" mean in an educational context?

In an educational context, the term "community of learners" refers to a supportive classroom environment where students learn from each other. This concept emphasizes collaboration, interaction, and the sharing of ideas among students, fostering a sense of belonging and mutual support. Such environments encourage students to engage in discussions, work together on projects, and provide feedback to one another, enhancing their learning experience as they build upon their collective knowledge and skills.

This collaborative approach contrasts with situations where only the teacher directs learning or where the focus is solely on individual work. While individual efforts are valuable, the essence of a community of learners highlights the benefits of social interaction and cooperative learning in enhancing understanding and skills. A community of learners does not primarily consist of students from different schools, as that would simply denote a diverse group rather than reflecting collaborative learning dynamics within a single educational setting.