Discussion
Investigation and Research Discussions

This discussion type aims to engage students with the content seriously. This discussion type can be the heart of the content knowledge activities, relying on activities that direct students to read, analyze, and research content material. New content knowledge builds on the student’s understanding and expands the knowledge base needed to apply and use the knowledge. Some discussion activities might include sharing insights from the readings and suggesting content applications in different contexts. Other activities might be brief action studies, summaries of content relationships, student-to-student discussions, or simulations. Often, students start working with the ideas, researching possibilities and relationships, and connecting the dots. Evaluation of this discussion type is based on the expected level of engagement and how deep or broad their contributions might be expected. The rubric for this type of discussion will have more point values and varying requirements and expectations as to students using the core concepts, sharing ideas, and responding to the substantive ideas of other students (Boettcher, 2019).

Boettcher, Judith. 2019. Four Types of Discussion Forums in Online Courses. https://community.acue.org/blog/four-types-of-discussion-forums-in-online-courses/