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Discussion Requirements & Expectations

Throughout the class you'll participate in several online discussions. For each one you'll post an initial response to a question, as well as replies to two other students.

What’s the purpose of class discussions?

College classes should offer students the chance to share their thoughts and experiences. Since we don’t meet in-person, the online discussions help create conversation, build a sense of community, and allow everyone to exchange ideas.

Where can I find class discussions?

You can access our class discussions either by clicking “Assignments” in the eCampus course menu and then clicking the discussion links within the unit folders, or by clicking “Discussions” in the course menu to see a list of all discussion boards.

How do I post or reply to a discussion?

Watch this video tutorial  to learn how to participate in discussions on eCampus.

What are the ground rules for these discussions?

Our discussions should be thoughtful, but they should also be civil and responsible. If something would be inappropriate to say to someone in person, it’s inappropriate to post to the discussion board.

Keep in mind that we all come from different backgrounds and our worldviews are influenced by things like age, gender, ethnic identity, social values, religious and political beliefs, etc. Show tolerance and respect for differences when writing posts and replies.

To read more about online "netiquette" (rules for interacting online), click "Start Here" in the course menu and review the Netiquette section of "Introduction to Online Learning".

What are the requirements for discussions?

There are two parts of discussion participation:

1. Create an initial post in response to the discussion question

2. Read all responses from other students and write replies to at least 2 students

Note: There will be separate deadlines for the initial post and for the 2 replies. See the course calendar for all due dates.

How will my discussion participation be graded?

Each discussion will be worth 150 points:

· 100 points for the original post

· 50 points for posting both replies

I will be looking at your critical thinking, understanding of the content, and use of specific evidence. Please see the Discussion Board Grading Rubric for more details.

Initial post requirements:

· Post should be at least 300 words.

· Use both sources to answer the discussion question.

· Include specific examples, including quotations and paraphrases from the sources, to support your answers.

· Include a question for your classmates -- something you don't understand about the sources or would like their opinion on.

· Post by the due date listed on the course Calendar to receive full credit.

Reply requirements:

· Reply to 2 other students.

· Write at least 150 words for each reply.

· Provide a constructive response to the original author. For example, you could answer their question, correct inaccurate information, propose an alternative interpretation or perspective, and/or offer specific suggestions to improve their post.

· Reply by the deadline to receive credit for the assignment.

IMPORTANT: Replies that only say something like “good job” or “I (dis)agree” will not earn any points.

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