Planning and facilitating quality discussions

The move to online teaching has made spontaneous class discussion much more difficult, yet it is an important component of many university courses. So here, three digital teaching experts share advice on how to plan and foster quality discussions among students in the online learning environment, before answering questions about some of the key challenges. This webinar was  filmed as part of a series produced by ACUE (the Association of College and University Educators) to help faculty with the digital pivot. If you’re in a hurry, browse the timeline below for the key topics covered and where in the video to find them.

01:06 Ludwika Goodson on why and how to facilitate online discussions

09:55 Viji Sathy on synchronous and asynchronous “micro-discussions” centred around group problem-solving

15:09 Flower Darby on logistical considerations around how to support group discussion online

22:44 How do you make sure students are engaged and participating in online discussions?

30:27 An explanation of study hall forums

31:28 What if students are having trouble with access because of internet issues, and how do you manage students who are shy or uncomfortable with participating in the online environment?

39:59 How to assess online discussions?

46:23 An explanation of using “bingo cards” in online discussions

47:42 Key takeaways on facilitating student discussions online

This video was produced by the Association of College and University Educators (ACUE).

Get more useful advice on designing and delivering remote courses via ACUE's online teaching toolkit