Design Online Discussion Forums to Engage Students and Enliven Conversations

The discussion forum is one of the most critical components of an online course. Yet, many online courses have discussions that are nothing more than “make one post and reply to two colleagues’ posts.” Students follow that instruction, and the “discussion” is over. Very little learning has occurred. This workshop will consider the role of the instructor, how to design discussion forums creatively, and how to foster robust (and actual) discussion. By the end of this workshop, you will have constructed three online discussion forums for a single course, utilizing the principles and practices explored throughout the day. Lunch is provided. A stipend is available for eligible participants. Registration is required.