Let's Talk About . . .: Discussion Boards in the Classroom

There are numerous pros and cons to using discussion boards in the classroom. A pro is students may feel more comfortable contributing to a discussion board than to an in class discussion. I would like to mention though that I think it is important for students to develop public speaking skills. It might be best not to rely too heavily on discussion boards, but first focus on developing a healthy learning environment in which all students feel comfortable contributing to an in class discussion. Discussion boards may provide students with time to reflect and think about a response before they contribute. Students would also have time to work on their writing skills and work towards making well written and well edited contributions. Their overall content and delivery may be of higher quality. There is a chance for cyber bullying on discussion boards, which is clearly detrimental to a healthy learning environment. The chance of cyber bullying may require more involvement from the monitor, in our case a teacher, which is good. The closer the teacher monitors the discussion board the better because s/he will then gain a better understanding how the students are interacting and what they are discussing. Teachers can still be actively involved in the learning process. I do have an issue with the accessibility to discussion boards. I invite you to continue a discussion on accessibility. Visit vBulletin Forums, under Education 3508--Fall 2007, select Section PQR , and the discussion is under Open Discussion.

There are also several ways discussion boards can enhance the learning experience.

1) The discussion can be initiated in the classroom. Students could then continue the discussion online. As mentioned above, this gives students the chance to think before they answer. Also, due to time constraints not all of the students may have contributed. Everyone can contribute to the discussion board.

2) Discussion boards can enhance writing workshops that are initiated in class. Students can submit work to the bulletin then another student can TAG it, or help with editing. The student can then use this feedback to improve his or her work.

3) Discussion boards can be used for an assignment on debates. Students could practise posting premises backed by evidence. They could also visit other discussion boards in which other people might be debating and, with class instruction, and learn to evaluate the debates.

4) There is potential beneficial for group work. Students no longer need to meet in person, which is sometimes difficult, to co ordinate a group project. The final project could be one that could be totally online, for example a webpage.

5) Discussions can extend beyond the classroom. Students from around the world can contribute to the discussion, which may introduce to students to new ideas and perceptions. Multiculturalism and acceptance of others is important in today’s globalised world.