Discussion Forum Rubric

Participation in asynchronous spaces are just one of the elements in engaging online with
content as well as with fellow learners and allows for the building of a community of
practice. These activities provide an opportunity for members of the class to learn from each
other based on the readings, different life experiences, and unique perspectives gained from
studying course materials. It also assists to effectively convey ideas to a group in a
professional and respectful manner.

In order for online discussions to be effective it is important for each member of the group to
participate during the allotted time frame. In addition, your presence and contributions to
others should be apparent throughout the discussion period.

In FoLTO, an evaluation of participation will be based on a rubric and will assist you to
complete the activities.

For each discussion, please take time to consider the question(s) before posting your original
thoughts about the activity. Once you have posted these initial thoughts/comments, consider
reading and replying to messages posted by your fellow participants.

When composing replies here are a few approaches to consider:

 provide an alternative perspective

 share stories about your own experiences
 ask questions to further the discussion
 post additional resources (websites, books, articles)
 discuss why you agree or disagree with something
 Online Discussion Forum Participation Rubric
Criteria Unsatisfactory Satisfactory Good Outstanding
Content of discussion Initial comments were posted Initial comments address some Initial comments address Initial comments thoroughly
but did not address the of the activity requirements. most, but not all, of the address all parts of the
activity. Comments are not well activity. Comments are activity. The comments are
organised and show limited reasonably organised and clear and concisely stated,
knowledge and evaluation of demonstrate adequate demonstrating that there is
the topic. familiarity and analysis of the application of knowledge and
topic. critical thinking.
Number of postings No postings. Only one substantial message Multiple postings including Multiple postings are made
was posted. some substantial content were offering substantial, well
  posted, however, a limited written contributions-opinions,
number include errors or need observations, questions,
additional supporting detail. experiences, critiques,
suggestions, etc.
Responses to Other Questions/comments were not Answered only one or two Contributed to others posts Contributed to other posts and
Participants addressed. responses. and elaborated as needed provided excellent feedback
and critical responses.
Contribution/ Duration Participation was not Postings were submitted on at Postings were submitted on 3 Postings are evenly distributed
continuous throughout the least 2 different days during or more days during the topic, throughout the Topic
topic (1 day only). Replies the topic. Replies were posted but may not reflect reflecting participation from
were only posted for 1 for at least 2 participants. participation from start to start to finish. Multiple replies
participant. finish. Replies were posted for were posted for at least 3
at least 2 participants. participants or more.
Etiquette Postings are not appropriate-- Postings include inappropriate Posting are reasonably Postings are appropriate, using
poor grammar/structure, references and may include appropriate, but contain a few proper language, cordiality,
inappropriate several errors in errors. grammar, punctuation, etc.
slang/abbreviations, etc. grammar/structure.