Online discussions are a great way to engage learners, share ideas, and foster collaboration. However, leading them effectively requires some planning, skills, and strategies. In this article, you will learn how to design, facilitate, and evaluate online discussions that are meaningful, interactive, and inclusive.
The first step to lead online discussions is to create prompts that align with your learning objectives, spark interest, and invite multiple perspectives. Prompts should be open-ended, focused, and challenging, but not too complex or vague. You can use different types of prompts, such as scenarios, cases, questions, quotes, or media, to stimulate critical thinking, reflection, and creativity. You should also provide clear instructions, expectations, and criteria for participation and assessment.
The second step to lead online discussions is to facilitate participation that is active, respectful, and constructive. You can do this by modeling good online communication practices, such as using positive and supportive language, acknowledging and building on others' contributions, and providing feedback and guidance. You can also use various techniques to encourage participation, such as asking follow-up questions, summarizing key points, highlighting different views, inviting quieter participants, and addressing conflicts or misunderstandings.
I always start online learning with a friendly, fun chat which includes asking the learners to post some kind of emoji in the chat. It sets the tone that participation is expected and I will also check in on people who haven't participated asking if they need help with the chat box, mic etc
The third step to lead online discussions is to evaluate the learning and engagement outcomes of the discussion. You can do this by using both formative and summative methods, such as rubrics, self-assessments, peer feedback, surveys, or quizzes. You should also provide timely and specific feedback to the participants, highlighting their strengths, areas for improvement, and suggestions for further learning. You should also reflect on your own performance as a discussion leader, and identify what worked well and what can be improved.
Mentimeter is a great tool to use for engagement and quizzes. Particularly with students who feel safer with anonymity. It's great for conversation starters and the word cloud element is a nice addition.
The fourth step to lead online discussions is to use appropriate tools and platforms that suit your purpose, audience, and context. You should consider the advantages and disadvantages of different options, such as synchronous or asynchronous, text-based or audio-visual, moderated or unmoderated, and public or private. You should also familiarize yourself with the features and functions of the chosen tool or platform, and test it before launching the discussion. You should also provide clear instructions and support for the participants on how to access and use the tool or platform.
The fifth step to lead online discussions is to adapt to the online environment, which may pose some challenges and opportunities for communication. You should be aware of the potential barriers and benefits of online communication, such as lack of non-verbal cues, time differences, cultural diversity, and digital literacy. You should also use strategies to overcome or leverage these factors, such as using emoticons, abbreviations, or multimedia, setting time frames and deadlines, respecting and valuing different perspectives and backgrounds, and providing resources and references.
The sixth and final step to lead online discussions is to engage in continuous improvement, which means seeking feedback, learning from experience, and making adjustments as needed. You should solicit feedback from the participants, peers, or experts on the quality and effectiveness of your online discussions, and use it to improve your design, facilitation, and evaluation skills. You should also keep track of your progress and achievements, and celebrate your successes and learn from your failures. You should also explore new ideas, tools, and trends to enhance your online discussion leadership.
I would always use a co-facilitator for large groups or hybrid events to help monitor the chat. Silence from online delivery takes some getting used to but you can always ask for reactions in the chat box. 'If you are still with me send me a smiley face', count them as they come in and call out how many people haven't responded and comment on it.