Topic Area: Online Teaching & Learning
Presented by: Brandy Ellison, Maya Moss
Abstract:
Translating a large-enrollment, team-based, general education course to an online format led to many predictable challenges. Chief among them was how to encourage meaningful interactions among team members about course topics. Inspired by a post in EDUCAUSE, I implemented a discussion format that included rotating roles and staggered due dates. The roles are:
Initiator: Posts a prompt for teammates to respond to
Debater: Posts counterarguments or alternative perspectives
Highlighter: Posts a brief summary of the week’s discussion, including at least two quotes
Citizen: Responds to a prompt and to teammates
In addition to these requirements, I implemented new grading criteria. Students could earn 5 points for meeting all requirements or 0 points if they missed any requirements, including due dates. No partial credit was offered.
The new system presented numerous benefits and challenges. The presentation will provide more detail on the system, how it functioned, and how it connected to University and course learning goals. In addition, a student from the course will be a co-presenter, sharing their own experiences with the discussion format and summarizing feedback gathered from peers. Simon, E. (November 21, 2018). 10 tips for effective online discussions. EDUCAUSE.
Session Resources:
What’s my role?: Lessons from implementation of a new discussion format (PowerPoint)