I would like to add a comment here, specific to encouraging active learning. This is a skill for the facilitator to hone into. One way I do so is to follow the ABC rule in discussion forums. A - Acknowledge what the student has written; B - Back it up with readings for the week or other resources or even my own personal or professional experiences; C - Continue active learning by asking a question (probing or Socratic Questionning Techniques).
I also require students to ask questions at the end of their responses and find that they appreciate the opportunity to learn how to ask questions, as well as they comment on the depth of responses in the discussion forum.
I would like to hear of other strategies people have with regards to encourging active learning
