additinalnotes.docx

Addition notes

Discussion Board Assignments

Judith Marged

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Hello Class,
Did you know research has shown online students who participate in threaded discussion board forums are more successful than students who are non-participatory? Well, it’s true, students who participate in online discussion board forums develop a sense of community, support each other to reach their goals, and achieve greater opportunity for success (Lao, 2002).
Your weekly discussion board assignments are the equivalent of a classroom discussion. In a face-to-face environment, the instructor will spend some time lecturing, and ask questions about the topic.  The students then have the opportunity to respond, however, there is usually not enough time for all students to express his/her opinions and answers.
In the online setting, the student must read the lecture material, and then respond to several questions.  All students, therefore, have the opportunity to express his/her answers and opinions on the topic.  The instructor’s role is to read and reply to your responses. I will attempt to expand the discussion by asking additional questions. Sometimes, these questions are meant to enable the student to add to a weak original reply.  Other times, these questions are being used to keep the discussion going.  Finally, for some, I will simply respond to your posted message.
At times, I will play devil’s advocate and present an opposing side to your response, or ask a thought-provoking, controversial question.  This may or may not be my opinion, but rather a way to entice discussions and new thoughts. I hope that you participate in these extended discussions. Remember, you will get out of this class what you put into it.
Participation in the discussion board forum is a requirement for all students. A significant portion of your grade for this class will be your active and meaningful participation in the discussion board forums. Keep in mind, to earn full credit for participation you are required to respond to your classmates’ posts. 
  This participation also includes responding to the additional questions that instructors may post.
 Please review the response requirements for each posting as it varies. You will find the threaded discussion board format serves as the “heart” of our virtual classroom.
Listed below are six essential components that will assist you in communicating effectively in the discussion board forum.
1.
Asynchronous Discussion Board
 – The Ashford University online program utilizes an asynchronous format; this approach carries through to the discussion board forums. Asynchronous discussion board forums provide participants with a method to write, post, or retrieve information at any time, therefore, the writer and reader do not have to be online at the same time.
2.
Active Writing
 – Active writing is the key to building greater comprehension. Active writing requires four elements, (a) restating key points to demonstrate an understanding of what is written, if necessary, asking non-threatening questions to build comprehension (b) expressing appreciation to the speaker for his/her contribution, (c) making a statement of your interpretation/reflection/ideas of what was said and (d) offering an invitation for the original speaker to respond to your reflection.
3.
APA Style – 
APA Style is the required format for all written submissions at Ashford University. Discussion Board posts should include in-text citations to validate statements and a reference list according to APA Style 7th edition standards. In addition to course material, external sources should be infused within the discussion board posts.
4.
Clear, Concise, and Direct Messages
 – As the discussion board is an online written format, it is important that comments are clear, concise, direct, and brief in to get the message conveyed and generate interest among your readers.
5.
Professional Courtesy – As within a traditional classroom, all participants are expected to show respect towards others and their opinions. Please remember to keep language polite and on-target to the classroom topic.
6.
Proper Grammar – As a college student, it is essential to utilize correct grammar in your communications. Using shorthand abbreviations or cyber lingo may be confusing to your readers. As the discussion board forums are an essential part of your overall grade, effective use of grammar, spelling, and punctuation will count towards your graded activity.

***Remember***

The minimum requirements for participation (*not for full participation credit, but for minimum participation credit):

1. Initial posting by Thursday (Day 3) of each week.

2. Respond to at least two of your classmates by Monday (day 7)

3. Respond to any questions that your instructor might pose.  

I will be watching to see that you are demonstrating critical thinking in your responses, not just short answers! I am attaching the 
Discussion Rubric
 showing that research is required for discussions. You should support your thoughts and opinions with peer-reviewed facts. Conducting research shows that you are learning more than what you already know about the topic.

If you have any questions, please let me know.
Dr. J.

[email protected]

 
Reference
Lao, T.M. (2002). A description of the experiences, perceptions, and attitudes of professors and graduate students about teaching and learning in a Web-enhanced learning environment at a Southwest b institution. Ph.D. dissertation, New Mexico State University, United States — New Mexico. Retrieved from ProQuest Digital Dissertations database. (Publication No. AAT 3056041