Communicate 4.2.3 Discussions

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

The key role/purpose for discussion forums is to share information.  Discussion forums are very effective in their role to share information by allowing many students to participate and post they thoughts, ideas, resources, findings, etc.

• How do discussion forums function as a teaching tool?

Peer teaching:  You are learning from your peers based on what is being presented and the vetting  the information through replies, Q and A, and sharing of supporting thought and resources.
  

• How could they be used effectively and ineffectively?

Discussion boards are used effectively when they result in high volume  of sharing information, which facilitate student progression towards learning goals.   Ineffective usage results in the hindrance of  progression towards learning goals like sarcasm, negative comments, none participation by students, etc. 

• Furthermore, what are some best practices for facilitating forums online?
  
  ü  Respond to the first thread of all student responses and ensure that the post addresses the essential elements
  ü  Highlight selections from the prompt, reading, or thematic focus of the student’s response in the initial feedback
  ü  Integrate audio commentary in the response
  ü  Link to external resources, readings, or websites for further study
  ü  Rely on the Socratic Method in all Discussion Forums