Concurrent Sessions

Engaging Students in the Virtual Classroom through Discussion

Tue 1:15 – 2:00PM — Foyer 4
Lucinda A. Potter, WVU Department of Political Science

This poster session outlines my cumulative experience using asynchronous discussions to engage students in the virtual classroom. Strategies for setting expectations, modeling appropriate discussion board behaviors, moderating the discussions, and grading will be covered. For example, I will bring along the “boilerplate” syllabus statement about discussions that I use in all my virtual classes. I will provide the detailed handout given to all students at the start of each semester. Typical “icebreaker” activities and a detailed description of my method of grading (via a grading form) will also be covered. Finally, I will provide an outline of specific methods that work well and pitfalls to avoid. Those who view this poster session can expect to leave with several handouts and practical “tips and tricks” designed to enhance student engagement in the virtual classroom.

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