In Module One, the discussion board is used to get to know each other and build our classroom community. For the rest of the course, we will be discussing topics related to our course learning objectives.

Focusing on writing posts with depth and thought. I expect to see postings of high quality. I do want you to feel that you can chat freely, but I also want to see you using the resources to discuss the questions on a deeper level and write about how you can improve due to what you have learned. Use examples to demonstrate you learned something that you can apply. From this point on, posts that basically say, “I agree, good point” will not get the full credit.

You should refer back to this for each week we have a required discussion posting. If you want to do exceptionally well on the discussions, I encourage students to do the following for the substantive post each week. (Of course, all of the points of suggestion will not correspond with every week, but in general):

When answering the question prompts, relate the discussion issue back to a specific point in current events or in the assigned readings or videos.
Cite a credible source that proves or disproves a point under discussion.
When applicable, show how "expert sources" seem to contradict each other on the issue in question (expert sources are people who are knowledgeable in the field)
Explain your opinion about an issue, but then consider playing Devil’s Advocate and tell how your opinion might be completely wrong.
Ask a detailed question about a concept from the readings, or from earlier discussion. The goal is to have a conversation with your classmates.
Offer a detailed explanation of a related item or concept from another reading.

Examples of types of postings that are not substantive:

A sentence or two that tells how you agree or disagree with an earlier post.
A post that consists purely of assumption or unsubstantiated opinion.
A post asking a simple question about an item from the syllabus (e.g., ‘What assignment is due this week?’).
A posting of a personal nature that has little or no relevance to the course, the learning objectives, the discussion prompt, the assigned readings for the week, or any issue up for discussion during the week (e.g., ‘What is your favorite food?’). These can be used, but they would be additional to substantive type posts.
Postings of any kind that are late or filled with errors (spelling, grammar, punctuation, etc.).

Always have one well written initial post and at least two thoughtful replies.

Remember to cite sources to back up your statements.

Let’s discuss citations:

1. Instead of posting a whole paragraph from the text, I prefer that you demonstrate you can apply the information and give proper credit to the source. Keep any quotations under 40 words.

2. You get to choose which citation method you use (for example, APA, MLA, or Chicago).

3. It is totally acceptable to use a citation generator like Citation Machine. There are several free citation generators online.