Using Journals and Discussion Boards on Blackboard to help students to feel connected
Mike Jackson, FMS, students on Genomic Medicine MSc
Course leaders post simple questions and exercises using both the discussion boards and occasionally the journals (for private feedback) to test knowledge and understanding. Questions involve finding the answers to simple questions online or submitting a simple answer to a question. Instructors can respond within minutes to confirm that answers are correct or with longer explanations if incorrect.Often findings form the basis of group discussion both online and when the cohort come together again.
This course is based around distance learners and professionals working full time in the NHS. These Blackboard tools allow them to feel connected to their course without eating into their busy work schedule, enabling them to check their progress quickly and easily and without the prssures of a more formal assessment.
Certainly learners have responded very well to this approach. Everyone on the curse has participated and most have found it beneficial to their learning. For staff it is a quick and easy way to stay in touch with the cohort.
Student Engagement
Postgraduate taught
Faculty of Medical Sciences (not a School)
Blackboard
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