University of Arkansas at Little Rock

Most online course instructors at UALR will require that a specific number of discussion messages be posted.  Here are some hints (not rules) to help you respond and communicate effectively.

• Focus on the instructions. Be sure to follow the directions in the instructor’s prompt or syllabus closely.
• Work to respond with something that adds value to the discussion. Online does not mean easy, and you need to let your instructor know that you take the class seriously.
• Expand on the topic.
• Provide a story that helps to illustrate the main idea.
• Offer a different perspective to increase discussion.
• Provide an online resource relevant to the topic and include a hyperlink.
• Treat others with respect even when you disagree, and acknowledge those who respond to you.
• Don’t send “Me too” or “I agree” posts; they waste everyone’s time and don’t contribute to the discussion. Make your posts substantial and communicative.
• Post early. You’ll get more response and become more engaged in conversation.
• Offer a learning method you’ve used or experienced in a different course.
• Provide a summary of the ideas others have posted so far.  This kind of recap is good when you join the conversation late.
• Ask a specific question but avoid those with yes/no answers.
• Ask an open ended question that relates to the current topic.
• Avoid doing all of your posting at the end of the week, term, or topic deadline. You miss out on interaction and cause yourself more work.
• When using direct quotations from the text, include the name of the text and page number to avoid confusion.
• Use emoticons to clarify any use of humor so that your readers understand the spirit of the communication.
  

Adapted from an article by Dennis O’Connor (wiredinstructor.net)             http://www.sloanconsortium.org/node/1421                1/23/2009