Communication Tools
Discussion Forum
The Discussion Forum is a key component of the course. It's the place where you can communicate with other students and faculty. Discussions are arranged in "topics" containing discussions that are formed around "threads."
"Discussions" is a place where messages can be posted for public display. On the Internet, and in some of the online modules, a Discussion may also be called a bulletin board or a forum.
In WebCT, Discussions is the main tool and topics are the items to be discussed.
A Discussion can be used:
- As a place where students can discuss general issues
- To discuss case studies or learning material with lecturer
- By a group of students to discuss or present an assignment
- To post general messages from the lecturer
- To organise related discussions
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The Discussions layout is very similar to that of the e-mail window. The main difference between the Discussions tool and Mail is that when you post a message in a topic, everyone sees the posted messages.
Discussions are used to ask questions about the course. The questions can be general or specific. They are open to all readers and can be answered by students or instructors.
You are also encouraged to answer questions that other students have posted.
When you select the Discussions tool, by clicking on the menu link or on a Discussions icon, you will be taken to a topic listing window.
It would be worth your while to experiment with the discussion board; your instructor will most likely provide additional information on how to use it in your course. The Help menu provides good information.
Mail
Using e-mail (electronic mail) you can send mail to other students or the instructor.
Chat
The chat function is the synchronous communication tool within WebCT. It allows you, your instructors and classmates to meet in "real-time," having almost the feel of a classroom or office visit through the typing of text messages!
Chat may be useful if a group or class meeting must be held at a particular time when the instructor and students are in different locations. They may even be on the other side of the world! However, all chatters must be logged on at the same time and in the same chat room.
For step-by-step instructions on how to use discussion, mail and chat tool, please go to UBC elearning Student WebCT Documentation page.
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