E-moderating Dr. Deborah Bordelon Ms. Elizabeth Moore Rhodes

Facilitating Online Learning Developing and Managing On-line Discussions Using Asynchronous and Synchronous Tools

Activity A A.1 Think-pair-share A.2 Divide into two groups, Group 1- respond to question 1 in Blackboard and respond to two postings that will be made in Group 2 Group 2 - do the reverse

Asynchronous and Synchronous Discussions E-mail Discussion Boards News groups Listservs Synchronous Chat

Why Use Asynchronous and Synchronous Discussions? Active Participation/Expands the Discussion Students: Learn how to pose the questions Construct their own interpretations of information Clarify and elaborate on the their own ideas and the ideas of others Supply evidence and support for opinions and comments Reflect upon their own thinking, questioning, negotiating and problem solving strategies

The Role of the Instructor Examine and reflect on pedagogy Choose assignments that will foster in-depth discussions and a sense of community Be a role model

Web-Based Options at Xavier Web-based Course Management Systems Blackboard WebBoard E-College Newsgroup Options Via an email client ( news.xula.edu) Support for such

Practical Tips for chatting Establish ground rules Relax -have a glass of wine - let it scroll Conversation is choppy Post a transcript for those who have missed the discussion

Activity B Face-to Face Discussion Posting student work- publishing advantage Insight from students

Success Testimony Online discussions level the playing field for student who are less likely to speak in class Posting student work- publishing advantage Insight from students that can’t be achieved face-to-face

Possible Pitfalls Technical learning curve Doesn’t replace face-to face Intimidating for some Access and equity

Follow-up Try three asynchronous and/or synchronous activities with your students. Have students provide feedback on the experience. Write a reflection on the effectiveness of these activities. Also include ways you feel asynchronous and synchronous discussions can be improved and used in future courses. Keep for your teaching portfolio Invite CAT staff to review for inclusion in faculty update

Follow-Up Activity 3 Can We Talk? Date Dec. 5th Time 4:00 PM Place Blackboard’s virtual classroom

Evaluation Please take the time to complete this evaluation.