Discussion+Forums

=//**Discussion Forums**// =

**Conducting Asynchronous Discussions** (Direct Quote from Moore & Kearsley, 2005)

The heart of the asynchronous online course is the discussion forum. The basic pattern of the discussion forum is fairly standard:
 * 1) An opening message. The course designers prepare a question requiring a response, the instructor gives an explanation or reflection on some item of content, or students post an assignment.
 * 2) Responding message. Instructor or students are expected to reply to one person with an elaboration or alternative view, or question. To ensure that everybody receives at least one reply, the instructor may call for a response to a message that has not received a reply.
 * 3) Follow-up message. Instructor or students reply to previous posting(s) with an explanation of how the second message was helpful in increasing understanding of the topic, and if possible building a further substantive comment.
 * 4) Summarize message. Instructor summarizes the messages from all group members to include key points, similarities, and differences in the group's understanding.

**Tips for Online Instructors** (Direct Quote from Moore & Kearsley, 2005)
 * Conduct an online conference like other teleconferences by "humanizing."
 * Conduct a computer-based conference like other teleconferences by asking good questions.
 * Control the number of messages.
 * Control the length of messages.
 * Occasionally provide summary messages that restate the major points already made.
 * Be careful to distinguish personal replies containing feedback for specific individuals from public comments intended for the entire class.
 * Every message should be acknowledged.
 * Take advantage of tools now available in most online learning systems that enable the instructor to organize students in teams for group assignments and projects.
 * Create a forum that explains discussion board procedures, and encourage students to add their own tips and comments during the course.
 * Assuming participation is seen as essential (as it is by constructivist teachers) link it to course assignments and grades.
 * Model good manners, and insist on good manners online.

**Example** Asynchronous Discussions **Rubric**

 * **Emerging** || **Proficient** || **Exemplary** ||
 * Initial post not present, does not address the question, or inadequately addresses the question. No replies present or reply does not move the discussion forward by provoking critical thinking. || Initial post adequately addresses the question. Posts a reply to one other person with an elaboration or alternative view. Replies to one person who replied to their original post in a manner that helps move the discussion forward by provoking critical thinking. This post provides an explanation of how the second message was helpful in increasing understanding of the topic. || Initial post adequately addresses the instructor's question and provides thought-provoking comments and/or questions that move the discussion forward. Replies to one other person with an elaboration or alternative view including a question that moves the discussion forward. Replies to every person who replied to their original post in a manner that helps move the discussion forward by provoking critical thinking. This post provides an explanation of how the second message was helpful in increasing understanding of the topic and builds a further substantive comment. ||

References

 * 1) Moore, M. & Kearsley, G. (2005). Distance education: A systems view. Belmont, CA: Wadsworth.