No brats or bullies... Keep to the topic!!
As an online student in the past I remember not getting nervous for the first day of class because they could not see or hear me. This is a great advantage because I love pajamas and I have a little voice when i want to and often have to repeat myself. Online learning is a relaxed virtual class and I feel the class discussion should be relaxed as well and not be a place to put your views on politics or religion. But more of water cooler discussion place where you gain knowledge from others but walk away from a discussion if need be.. I myself will removing a post due to this or if similar content is getting out of hand, or even too much of personal stories taking up discussion board this would distract from the educational purpose.
Val,
I agree that setting clear expectations is paramount in any course and especially online. Students like and want clear boundaries and to clearly understand the assessment procedure.
Herbert Brown III
Very true statement, the first order of business is establishing the rules of the game. Establishing what is expected of each participant and how they will be evaluated is essential to getting the discussion off to a great start.
Just a heads up... as an instructor in my program, we are not allowed to delete student's posts as they mark attendance. In addition, my students comment that their peer's personal stories and experiences help them learn. Something to consider.
Jennifer Evans
katie,
Do you articulate to the students clear expectations of what they should and should not post and how they should respond and respect others' opinions and viewpoints?
Herbert Brown III
