The Discussion Board (DB)

The Discussion Board (DB) is part of the core of online learning. Classroom discussion in an online environment requires the active participation of students and the instructor to create robust interaction and dialogue. Every student is expected to create an original response to the open-ended DB question as well as engage in dialogue by responding to posts created by others throughout the week. At the end of each unit, DB participation will be assessed based on both level of engagement and the quality of the contribution to the discussion.

At a minimum, each student will be expected to post an original and thoughtful response to the DB question and contribute to the weekly dialogue by responding to at least two other posts from students. The first contribution must be posted before midnight (Central Time) on Friday of each week. Two additional responses are required after Friday of each week. Students are highly encouraged to engage on the Discussion Board early and often, as that is the primary way the university tracks class attendance and participation.

The purpose of the Discussion Board is to allow students to learn through sharing ideas and experiences as they relate to course content and the DB question. Because it is not possible to engage in two-way dialogue after a conversation has ended, no posts to the DB will be accepted after the end of each week.

Discussion Topic

For this week’s Discussion Board, review the group questions to be addressed on networking and CRM recommendations that are described in the second half of IP2. Work with your group to divide the questions amongst the group members. Discuss a recommendation for one of the questions in detail with this broader audience. Obtain other views and perspectives for consideration. Support your recommendation using what you know about the company Verbania, knowledge of technologies, and best practices.

You may wish to prepare a Word document that contains your recommendations. Your Word document about networking elements must be attached to the discussion so that it may be part of the discussion board grading process. This document should also be submitted to the group area for consideration in capstone project grading which is completed in Unit 4.

In your own words, please post a response to the Discussion Board and comment on other postings. You will be graded on the quality of your postings.

For assistance with your assignment, please use your text, Web resources, and all course materials.

Grading Criteria

Assignment Criteria Proficient Descriptor Points

Quality of  Main Post

21 Points
Total

Student’s main post meets or exceeds the following requirements:

• Responds completely to all of parts of discussion question. (6 points)
• Communicates content information accurately and/or logically (5 points)
• Delivers a thoughtful response demonstrating insights and reflections (5 points)
• Connects to both key content concepts and personal experiences (5 points)
/21 pts.

Response to Peers

20 Points
Total

Responds to a minimum of 2 peers.  (10 points per response)
o Substantive response (5 points)
o Furthers the conversation with peers. Examples could include:  (5 points)

• Provides additional resources
• Connects to key concepts
• Shares personal or professional experiences
• Contributes new information or perspective
• Presents a competing viewpoint

/20 pts.

Support from Learning Resources

4 Points
Total

At least one post refers to course learning resources /4 pts.

Professional Writing

5 points

Response is well-organized, clear and free of grammatical and mechanical errors.

Posts demonstrate courtesy and respect for others.
/5 pts.  Total 50 Points Possible /50 pts.