Discussion Tool
From FerrisConnect KnowledgeBase
There are three types of discussion topics in FerrisConnect: Threaded discussion, Class Blog, and Journal. Threaded discussions are designed for group or class postings and replies. Threaded discussion can also be graded using the Grading Forms. The Class Blog and Journal options are available only if the designer has enabled these features in the Manage Course Settings area.
Learning outcomes
When finished with this section the learner will be able to...
- create a discussion topic
- post a discussion message
- attach a grading form to a discussion topic
Creating Discussion Topics
Topics for threaded discussion may be created within either the Build or Teach tabs. To create a discussion topic select Discussion, then click on the "Create Topic" button. Add a title and description. Topics can be organized into categories. If necessary, a category may be assigned at the time a topic is created. Discussion topics may be made "gradable"; options include assigning a numeric or alphanumeric grade, or using a grading form (rubric).
Additional options for the discussion tool include setting variables such as whether a student may post and/or reply to messages, and granting permission for students to edit their own messages. Another option available is to make a discussion topic anonymous to other students.
Activity - Create a Discussion Topic Create a mock discussion topic where a student is expected to read an article and post their reflections. In the description area remind students to comment on at least two other students' postings and reply to any comments made to their own initial posting. Add this topic to a new category entitled, "weekly readings". Make the topic gradable using the grading form - "Threaded Discussion".
Posting Discussion Messages
To post a discussion message, select a topic and click on the "Create Message" button. Enter a subject and message. The "HTML Creator" allows messages to be formated including adding bulleted lists, tables, font modification, etc. Images and Links to Webpages may be included in messages by using the HTML Editor. File attachments may also be added to a discussion posting by using the "Add Attachments" button.
Activity - Post a Discussion Message Post a message in the Articles topic created in the previous activity. Include either a link to a journal article found on the Web, or add an article document (.doc, .rtf, .pdf) as an attachment to the discussion message.
