How do I encourage students to submit meaningful contributions to Discussion Board forums?
In the course syllabus and in each forum, define what qualifies as a contribution. You can set parameters for both the number of threads, the length of a contribution and what constitutes a contribution. Example to include in your syllabus: Guidelines for the Discussion Forum • Remember to respond to each discussion forum and comment on at least one of your classmates’ contributions by the due date for full credit. • Postings should contribute to moving the conversation forward; you may pose new questions or constructively challenge a classmates thinking or assumptions. • Comments should be no more than 1 computer screen in length [unless stated] should be based on informed thinking. This means that there is evidence of integration of reading material [book and mini-lectures], personal experience or knowledge, and insights from classmates. [More specific guidlines can be included in each forum.
