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Discussions: Beyond the Classroom

For Philosophy 101, Professor James Bode fosters philosophical discussion outside of class hours by posting questions online. Not only does this allow for discussion that wouldn't fit during class hours, it gives students time to compose thoughtful answers and allows less talkative students a chance to participate.

Professor Bode also likes that online discussions allow students to respond directly to other students, rather than requiring him to mediate from the middle.

Professor Bode poses questions in online discussions and student respond.

Professor Bode creates three questions for each chapter and opens them up for group discussion. Participation in discussions is worth 30% of the final grade. Bode is an active participant in the discussion forums -- posing and answering questions and reading what his students have to say. He tries to encourage open discussion. He says "I tell the sudents it's not a test; if I disagree with them, I don't mark the grade lower."

For a more conversational discussion, Bode recommends that students in small groups agree on a time to hold a "somewhat synchronous conversation" so they can respond to each other and then add followup comments within a defined time period.

Instructions

Carmen's discussion tool is easy to setup and use, but effective use requires some planning and structure. Here are some links for setting up and effectively using online discussions.