Getting students to use discussion groups
Any ideas on how to get the student to use discussion groups without requiring a number of posts. I find that when you require a number of replies, it becomes just that, a chore for the student to accomplish.
Students will need some direction or guidelines to utlize discussions appropriately. Discussions should be part of the course grade; quality of posts should be the main component.
On the flip side, you also need to watch out for the students who post to much. It is possible to monopolize an online conversation.
There also needs to be value, if any student does not see value in the training or facilitation it will become a task rather than an educational experience.
