Discussions Quest
- What role or purpose do discussion forums serve in the online classroom and are they effective?
Discussion forums serve several roles and purposes in the online classroom. First, they are flexible and not limited by time or space. Often in the classroom, discussions have to be cut short due to time limitations, but online allows for an open forum for discussion. Second, students can use online discussions to give and receive feedback on their work or ask questions of each other. Students that may be introverted can use the online discussion to reflect and respond to ideas as well.
- How do discussion forums function as a teaching tool?
As a teaching tool, it allows me to integrate the communication standards for AP in a way that allows all students to interact and express themselves. It also allows students to create their own study groups in a way. I have students post on Blogger before reading quizzes to help guide their reading and focus in on a particular aspect of the texts. Students can use these posts to 'mine' for textual evidence and ideas when writing papers as well.
- How could they be used effectively and ineffectively? Furthermore, what are some best practices for facilitating forums online?
Effective:
-Allows more students to participate.
-Less time restrictions.
-Fosters collaboration and feedback.
Ineffective:
-Too teacher centered.
-Not focused on learning objectives.
-Too many discussions, less focus on content.
Some best practices include:
1. The teacher must set the tone for the discussion.
2. The discussion must be aligned to learning objectives.
3. The discussion must be beneficial to the students, not just 'busy' work.
4. All students must be encouraged to participate.
5. There should be closure or summary from the instructor and/or students at the end of the discussion.
https://www.openteachertraining.org/blog/quest/communicate-4-2-3/
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