Communicate 4.2.3 Discussions

• What role or purpose do discussion forums serve in the online classroom and are they effective?

Discussion forums are an informal way of connecting students and allowing them to reflect and discuss ideas presented by the instructor.  They can be highly effective when used regularly and fairly.  One great way to ensure participation is to apply a grade and encourage students to be involved by setting expectations.

• How do discussion forums function as a teaching tool?

Discussion forums function as a teaching tool by connecting students.  This makes students feel more involved which in turn raises participation and course satisfaction.  My favorite part of participating in discussion forums is seeing other classmates' ideas, perspectives, questions, and concerns because it really serves to further learning and comprehension.

• How could they be used effectively and ineffectively? Furthermore, what are some best practices for facilitating forums online?

In order to be used effectively students need to first be educated on netiquette and there need to be clear expectations of when and how to post.  Discussion questions should be clear and students encouraged to remain on topic; a teacher may even set a limit on post length in order to keep students on topic.  Students should be encouraged to respond to each other's posts and to disagree respectfully.  Applying a grade and reaching out privately to students who lag in participation can also be encouraging.  The teacher should remain in the role of facilitator by remaining present but allowing ideas to unfold on their own.  They can also be used ineffectively which would be forums that lack participation, are unkind, poorly managed, or do not have clear topics for discussion.