Grading Rubric:

Quantity of Posts: 5/5

Quality of Initial Post: 10/10

Quality of Engagement with Others: 5/5

Writing Mechanics: 5/5

Rationale:

Quantity of Posts: 5/5

*In order to receive the full point for participation, students must make all required posts. This is in keeping with the expectation for completeness of work for students.

Quality of Initial Post: 10/10

*There is an expectation of quality with regard to substantive content which can be assessed by how well they engage the relevant materials and/or content.  Are they able to perform a brief summary when necessary?  Are they able to create a critical assessment of the material ?

Quality of Engagement with Others: 5/5

*Students should be capable of creating engagement with their fellow classmates, even in instances where there is disagreement on a topic.  The expectation is that students will produce professional, respectful, and probing engagement on the posts of their peers in much the same style as they would experience in a seated classroom. 

 Writing Mechanics: 4/4

*This component specifically addresses whether or not a student is able to create a post that can be read and understood easily by others.  This rests on their proficiency with grammar, spelling, and punctuation.  Students should also be able to make use of appropriate stylistic formats, such as MLA or APA, when referencing course materials to support their points.

General Expectations: 

You should post an initial answer to the discussion question by Wednesday each week. Discussion should be active all week – not just on weekends. I expect your postings to incorporate responses to your peers, your opinions, pertinent information from the readings, and examples from your experience.

 It is reasonable for me to expect that your responses will include more than phrases such as "I agree with that" or "Interesting comment." The distinguishing feature of a well done posting is an objective and critical analysis of what you read. Your postings should feature good writing, including correct spelling and mechanics. We judge one another substantially by the quality, clarity and depth of our writing. All communication should be professional and should use good "netiquette."

• Do more than state agreement or disagreement. Justify and support your opinion. The most persuasive opinions are supported by evidence, examples, reasons, and facts. If you disagree with something, say why. If you really like something that you've read, let people know what makes you think that way;
• Do the appropriate preparation before you join the discussion;
• Check your message before you send it. Pay attention to your spelling and grammar, and be sure your message makes the points you want to make in a clear and concise way. Remember, the class must be able to read and understand your post;
• Help move the discussion along. When contributing to a discussion, read other people's comments first. Introduce new ideas, but also build on what others have said ("Piggy-back" on other people's ideas);
• Keep up with the discussion throughout the week. After you have made your contribution on a topic, check back a few times to find out how the discussion is evolving. Does someone's comment make you think twice about your view?
• Provide references from assigned readings and share useful resources to substantiate your statements and opinions.
• Do not post your responses to fellow students all in one sitting. This practice will be penalized.

Respect others' ideas and opinions. Feel free to disagree, but express your disagreement in a respectful manner. Disrespectful communication is poor communication. In this environment, it will be regarded as inexcusable.