Suggestions for types of discussions

Brainstorming Sessions

In small groups (less than 8 students), students brainstorm possible solutions to a current problem, case study, etc. Give students a time frame to work on the activity. Have them submit their top three ideas into a submission topic which everyone has access to. At the very end, open up each topic to all students for viewing.

Case Studies

Have students analyze a case study and compare results. Depending on the size of the class and the case study, small groups may be easier.

Reflective Activities

Have students reflect on how well they enjoyed a particular activity or discussion, or the course overall. Reflective activities will encourage students to share their feelings, experiences and knowledge.

Topic of the Week

Have students find material associated with the topic or concept being taught. Materials could range from an interesting article, cartoon, website, etc. Have students present the material and pose questions for class to discuss.

Movies and T.V Shows

Have students watch a current movie or TV show and highlight concepts learned in the course. For example, have students watch an episode of Survivor and highlight instances of office politics or team dynamics.

Suggestion Box

Have a forum open for suggestions on how the course could be improved, activities, etc. Consider allowing anonymous posting.

Rating Activities

Have students evaluate a website, learning object, or concept. This activity can also be completed with the survey tool and results can be discussed through the discussion tool.

1 minute summary

This is best accomplished within the chat tool (so you can review the time spent on the activity). Have students quickly summarize key concepts learned in class.

Group Essay

Assign students short essay topics on which they collaborate in group discussions. They can submit final copy through the dropbox or within discussions.

Course Help

Set up a forum to field questions and concerns regarding course materials, activities, etc.

Study Groups

Set up a forum to for students to prepare for exams, tests and projects. Small discussion groups work best for this activity.

Cafe/Water Cooler/Lounge

Have a space for students to post information that may be unrelated to the course. This is aprticularly helpful in fully online courses.

Research/Idea Exchange Competition

Have students investigate and present an interesting topic associated with the course. Students can sell their ideas to other students. In the end, students can vote on the best topic or idea.

Revised from suggestions from Meghan Campbell of D2L .