Module: {TITLE OF MODULE}

To the course designer: This activity sheet is designed to assist an on-line course designer in preparing group discussion activities. Refer to the sample discussion in the template section of the Virtual Academy handbook when customizing this template. This introduction should be deleted from the final activity sheet!!!!

DISCUSSION:
{Insert the title or topic for the discussion from the module overview.}
   
 PURPOSE:
{State what it is you want your students to learn? }
   
 OVERVIEW:
{Provide a thought-provoking introduction to the assignment relating it to module objectives. You might also include:
  1. How the students should prepare for the online discussion?  (e.g. readings, visits to web sites, assignments, in-class presentations...)
  2. How the student will to provide proof of learning?
  3. What kind of messages do you want students to post?  (e.g. substantiated claims, comments on other’s  messages, opinions, personal anecdotes, critique, peer review.)}
   
 SUBMIT:
{Describe in detail how the student is supposed to provide proof of participation.}
  1. What is the minimum number of messages each student should post? ___
  2. What is the minimum length of the post?
  3. Should the student initiate a new message? initiate a new thread? reply to an thread?
  4. Are attachments allowed? required? what file format?}
  5. Who is the moderator of the discussion?
  6. Where will the discussion occur? What is the name of the topic? the thread?
  7. Are anonymous posts allowed?
   
 EVALUATION:

{Describe how student learning and participation will be evaluated.

  1. How will you grade participation?  How many points is participation worth?
  2. How will you grade proof of learning? How many points is it worth?
  3. How is this activity related to the final grade?}
   
 TIME ON TASK:
{Describe the approximate amount of time needed to complete the assignment.}
   
 DEADLINE:

{Describe in detail the deadline for the assignment. What is the start date of the discussion? the stop date?}

adapted from the work of Tom Cantu, Center for Instructional Advancement and Technology, Towson University, Towson, MD 21252

Updated: Jan 3, 2003
The Community College of Baltimore County