Online Course Peer Review

Most online instructors try to incorporate meaningful discussions into their courses as a way to get students interacting with each other.  This can work beautifully if discussion requirements are established and easily understood by students.  In addition, message protocols guide students to write clear and effective messages, which can reduce discussion frustration.

Here are some discussion message protocols I’ve found helpful.  They come from The Online Learning Idea Book edited by Patti Shank in a section written by Barb Edwards:

• KISS — keep it short and simple.  Long messages discourage interaction.
• Check grammar and spelling! 
• Use a subject line that is short, descriptive, and distinctive.  For example, if a message’s subject line is simply “discussion” it provides no clue as to the content.  A subject line that reads “stress response” is much more descriptive.
• Add links!
• Resist the urge to post discussion messages that merely say “Thanks” or “You’re welcome”.   Instead, respond privately to that person.  Think about how your every post will add to the value of a discussion.