Discussion Boards for Online Mathematics
Does anyone have any advice on discussion forums for online mathematics courses? I have seen them used in generally two ways:
1) Required posts on a topic determined by the instructor.
2) Optional posting by students regarding any module topic.
I have found the second way to be much more productive. In case (2) the students use the discussion forum to vent their struggles and identify solutions. Also, it gives the opportunity for the instructor to answer questions in a centralized place rather than responding to individuals via email. Although in this cases there is less overall participation, the participation that occurs is useful. I have found option (1) to work poorly. Either the topic is boring and does not afford much opportunity for in-depth discussion or, if the topic is based on a deeper mathematical idea, it is beyond the capacity of most students. The resulting discussion becomes ineffective.
Any other online math instructors have comments or views?
Brian Stout
Fred,
Have you tried and electronic whiteboard for students to show their work?
Brian
I have taught online Mathematics courses. It was very difficult because students had trouble showing their work. I believe some courses like Mathematics courses should not be taught online.
Michael,
Ah yes. The varying times would be beneficial. We do have to take into consideration timesframes in which our students are available. Thanks so much for your input.
I agree that just requiring posting is not very productive. If a student is struggling they are looking for assistance in a real time environment. I am adjunct faculty and not always available and this delay can discourage the student who then just may move on without the necessary understanding of the material.
The second method is generally more effective. However in my particular classes I have students that are generally part time with other obligations and spread throughout the country. Therefore I have found that having live forums at varying times and dates to work through specific issues and or general understanding has been helpful in decreasing the failure rate.
Brian,
I have also seen a discussion board in Math used as a "Give me a hint" area. When a student is struggling with a problem, he/she posts: "I'm working on problem #3 and can't figure it out. Who can give me a hint." Other students give hints on how to calculate the problem, but don't give them the answer. It helps them all think through the problem.
Hope this helps.
