Class Discussions
My perspective of class threads (discussions) is to ensure the student has addressed the main topic, and then begin to challenge what they think they know or their opinions. I give them additional information to consider, see if they are willing to change their minds or stick to your views. If they choose to maintain their viewpoints, I try again, altering the facts slightly to se if the student is now willing to change their minds when a reasonable person would make adjustments in their viewpoints.
Kimberly and Marshall,
Sounds like you two have a system in which you keep in contact with students and keep the communication moving forward. Thanks for sharing.
Marshall,
I typically like to post at three stages throughout the week. I like to post some additional information and supporting web links on the first day to provide some additional insight for them. Then, mid-week, I like to respond to their initial postings and prompt some additional, open ended questions. Then, at the end of the week, I like to wrap it up with some summaries of the concepts we discussed.
Marshall,
Yes, providing information pertaining to the main topic and stirring more conversation is helpful. Thanks!
