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Discussion Participation |
Online Class Participation, Discussion & Rubric
Guidelines - Students are expected to participate in the discussion forum in the form of session topics and questions posted as a follow-up to the reading and the course focus for the session. Students will post a minimum of two messages per topic. At least one posting needs to be in response to the main topic thread. The second should be a response to the posting of another student. You are welcome and encouraged to post more. A full and lively discussion creates a rich and dynamic learning experience gathered from a range of perspectives. The discussion component of the course is the area where you construct knowledge with your classmates, comparing your experiences and drawing meaning from what you have learned.
Palloff & Pratt describe student feedback this way:
"A substantive post responds to the question in a way that clearly supports a position, begins a new topic, or somehow adds to the discussion by critically reflecting on what is being discussed or moving the discussion in a new direction. Simply logging on and saying 'I agree' would not be considered a substantive post." (Palloff & Pratt, 2001 pp.79-80)
Discussion - Active participation in the discussion area receives full points for the topic. What is meant by active participation is that students address the issues raised and respond to those raised by other students.
A Student will receive full points for the topic by exhibiting the following characteristics -
Reads all postings. Posts as required per topic. Postings tend to be spread throughout the session rather than clustered together indicating frequent access to the discussions. Postings are characterized by clarity of argument, depth of insight into theoretical issues, originality of treatment, relevancy, and sometimes include unusual insight or perspective. Arguments are well supported. Postings are never rude and never reflect hostility. Few if any errors in spelling and/or grammar (indicating proofreading).