Many instructors use online discussions as a tool to promote student engagement, collaboration and learning. Online discussions can occur asynchronously or synchronously and should consist of collaborative interaction with course content among the students and instructor. Consider these tips for creating effective online discussions in your course!
Learning Goals – Have a clear understanding of your learning goals to facilitate the development of meaningful discussion prompts and to help keep the discussion on track.
Clear Expectations – Outline and communicate clear expectations for discussions (e.g., length, quality, deadlines, grading criteria) to support students’ understanding of how to participate effectively.
Netiquette – Set clear netiquette guidelines at the beginning of the course and outline parameters for appropriate interactions, including use of language, different opinions and respect for others. In addition, make sure to monitor and address inappropriate behavior, as applicable.
Instructor Presence – Consider ways you can engage and participate in the discussion by asking challenging questions, requesting clarification or highlighting noteworthy responses.
Small Groups – Divide your class into smaller discussion groups on occasion to create a less overwhelming environment and allow for more personal discussions.
Audio/Video Options – Consider switching up written discussion boards by including audio/video options for synchronous or asynchronous discussions. Programs such as Flip allow students to share their responses with each other via audio/video, giving distance learners the opportunity to get to know and interact with each other in a different way.
Barkley, E. F., & Major, C. H. (2022). Engaged teaching: A handbook for college faculty. The K. Patricia Cross Academy.