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The many facets of Discussion – as a private journal.

If you use journaling as one of your course activities, consider moving it to an online version. There are many advantages this provides to both faculty and students.

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1. Instructors and students alike do not need to struggle to decipher each other’s handwriting.
2. Entries are completed in a timely manner throughout the entire semester as they are dated and time stamped upon submission.
3. No need to collect bulky binders and tote dozens of them across campus.
4. Feedback is provided directly to the student more quickly, building rapport between faculty and student.
5. Using the Discussion tool to create “private journals” provides a comprehensive collection of reflections for the entire semester. Students and faculty can view the progression of thought as new materials are contemplated.

E-journaling assignments also implement Chickering and Gamson’s “Seven Principles of Good Practice in Undergraduate Education.” For additional information read the my article E-journaling: Achieving Interactive Education Online. Click here

The Groups tool is used to create a “group” for every individual student, specifying a Discussion be created for each one. This becomes their private journal area to which only the student and the instructor have access.

For technical assistance in setting up private journals using the Discussion tool, view this video.

Regards,  Dr. Jill

Jonnie “Jill” Phipps, Ph.D.

Curriculum Designer