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Steps to Create a Discussion

 

 
 
 

iconBefore Creating a Discussion

Setting Clear Expectations


When setting up an online discussion, make your expectations clear for students. In addition to the discussion prompt, specify:

  • Response Length: Indicate how long responses should be.
  • Required Resources/Citations: List any sources or citations that should be included.
  • Replies to Other Posts: Specify if and how many other posts students need to respond to.

Encouraging Timely Participation

To prevent last-minute responses, consider setting an early due date for initial posts. Use language like this to clarify expectations:

Your initial post is due on Wednesday. Respond to other students' posts by Sunday.

Enhancing Engagement with the 3CQ Format

To encourage thoughtful, engaging responses, some instructors recommend the 3CQ format:

  • Compliment: Start with a positive remark.
  • Comment: Offer additional insight or a reaction to the post.
  • Connection: Relate the post to your own experiences or other course content.
  • Question: Pose a question to continue the discussion.

Pairing this approach with a grading rubric that values conversation quality can help foster deeper engagement.

Option to Prevent Generic Responses

For discussions where students might have similar answers or tend to post "I agree" comments, select Users must post before seeing replies to encourage original contributions.

Steps to Create a Discussion

STEP 1: Click on the Discussion link on the left navigation panel.

STEP 2: Click on the +Discussion button on the right side of the page.

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STEP 3: Enter a Topic Title. You can add your directions and questions in the RCE box, as you did when you created and assignment.

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Discussion Settings

If you want your discussion to be graded, check the Graded box under options.

In order to encourage original replies, instructors should also check Users must post before seeing replies. This will ensure that students will not see other student posts before posting their own response.

Allow threaded replies is also helpful to keep topics organized.

 

vTRY IT!

Now that you have seen how to create a discussion, try it yourself. Create an discussion with the following parameters:

Discussion Name: Weekly Check-in

RCE information: What questions do you have about this week's unit? Post any questions you have.

Points: 10

Settings: Allow threaded replies

Due Date: None

Save and Publish

 

vBonus TRY IT!

Masquerade as a student by using the Student View button and post a reply to your discussion.

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