Retaining Resources Knowing how to access resources is a key skill in the doctoral journey. In this assignment, you will access and retain some important resources. Use the following information to en

College of Doctoral Studies

Discussion Forum Philosophy

Introduction

Online classroom discussion is a vital learning activity that enhances writing, critical thinking, and scholarly development. These skills establish the foundation for self-reflection and unbiased consideration of other perspectives that enhances the long-term development of the doctoral learner.

The successful doctoral learner engages faculty and colleagues in substantive conversations, reflecting on other’s perspectives while articulating their own views. More importantly doctoral learners demonstrate the disposition to critically and reflectively consider new information, facts, and perspectives in the enhancement of their own knowledge and development. To emulate a real-world doctoral conversation, the doctoral learner will participate in the classroom discussion forum. The classroom discussion has two components: the learner’s original response to the discussion question/prompt and the learner’s ongoing participation and contribution to the discussion. Each component is graded separately.

Initial Post to Discussion Questions/Prompts:

The doctoral learner is required to post a substantive initial response to Discussion Question/Prompt 1 on day 3 of the module and Discussion Question/Prompt 2 on day 5 of the module.

Ongoing Contribution to Class Discussion:

In addition to the initial responses posted on day 3 and day 5 of the module, the doctoral learner must also contribute to the discussion by posting one substantive participation post on 3 days of the week. A total of five posts are required each week (two initial, and three ongoing contributions).

Substantive Participation Posts

Full participation in the discussion is a key component of the learning experience. It enriches group interaction and enhances the doctoral learning environment.

To be considered substantive, a participation post (initial or ongoing) should average 150-250 words in length. The post should include appropriate foundation knowledge, be factual, and enhance the ongoing dialogue. However, rather than just reporting what someone else has stated, the doctoral learner should demonstrate application and/or reflection of knowledge such that the learner enhances the meaning of the material. Contributing to the discussion should promote an exciting, vibrant, shared learning community that accomplishes two or more of the following:

• Expands on a classmate’s comments in a value-adding, topic-related way.

• Promotes a collaborative, supportive doctoral community.

• Advances the dialogue through follow-up questions.

“One-liners,” off-topic posts, vague statements, unsupported opinions, and inadequate explanations or posts do not meet the substantive participation requirements listed above.

Summary

Participation in the class discussion provides the doctoral learner an unparalleled opportunity to practice being a doctor. Upon graduation, stating opinions without basis or foundation will be challenged, as it is expected that doctorally trained individuals offer broad prospective and insight which is based on thoughtful and reflective understanding of their discipline rather than mere personal opinions. Please take maximum advantage of this unique learning opportunity.