Teaching With Online Discussions

• List reasons for using online discussions

• Explain the various roles of the facilitator

• Describe different models for participation and assessment

• Identify opportunities for using discussions in one’s own teaching

• List reasons for using online discussions

• Explain the various roles of the facilitator

• Describe different models for participation and assessment

• Identify opportunities for using discussions in one’s own teaching

Outcomes

What are Discussions?

Benefits of Discussions

Angel Instructor Course States…

Critical thinking is a common objective of

various disciplines and a goal that most faculty can

aspire to.

MacKnight, C. (2000)Teaching Critical Thinking through Online Discussions

Use discussions to encourage higher level thinking

Every course offered by Lethbridge College will contain a blended

learning component.

(Lethbridge College Roadmap to the Future - 2010)

Fits DL Strategy

When to Use Discussions

Range of Opportunities

What is the Instructor’s Role?

What Role?

When questioning, problem-solving and investigation become the priority classroom activities,

the teacher becomes a “Guide on the Side”

• Mackenzie, J.(2010). The Wired Classroom

Guide on the Side• Monitors Discussions but does not

necessarily respond to every posting

• “Hovers”– directs discussions when they get off track– helps steer directions that will meet course

outcomes

Role of Student

How to Build a Discussion

Discussion Tips

Lay out specific directions and expectations

Make it meaningful and purposeful

•Give clear guidelines on expectations(minimum and maximum length)

•Identify minimum number of times expected to participate• Establish clear marking rubrics or guidelines for assessment

• Why would I want to participate?• What can I learn from others?• What can I share with others to

enhance their understanding?

Build Independence

• Teach students how to participate; begin slowly – simple introductions with some focused questions; move to more difficult levels of participation – large classes – may wish to use grouped discussions

Netiquitte

Netiquette

• eLearning Café WebsiteOnline Communication Tips For Students

• UBC – Netiquitte siteCommunicating Online: Netiquitte

Challenges / Pitfalls

Death by Discussion

What Next?