Hello! I am an instructional designer at a US university, working on an online art history course using Canvas. The instructor prefers weekly discussion boards for assignments, with occasional video responses. Can you suggest some alternatives to discussion boards for student assignments?
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Most of your friends won’t use any group chat app you pick. A good number of them won’t even try to dowload it. Even those who do it often won’t use it as part of their normal work, and it won’t work as a way to get in touch with them.
To make this kind of system, you either need to be in charge and be able to make them use it, or you need to pick a way for them to communicate that they already use.
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You can try Google Classroom because it provides a platform for teachers and students to collaborate, share resources, and engage in discussions. It integrates seamlessly with other Google tools and offers features like assignment management, announcements, and class discussions.
I use Discord with my students; it has all the necessary features. I think it is a success
It would help if you tried out Discord.
In my experience designing online courses, I’ve found that incorporating alternatives to traditional discussion boards can enhance student engagement and creativity. One effective alternative is using collaborative projects where students work in small groups to create presentations, digital posters, or multimedia projects related to art history topics. These projects can be shared and discussed within the class, fostering peer learning and collaboration. Another option is implementing reflective journals or blogs where students can independently explore and analyze artworks, historical contexts, or personal responses.
This approach encourages critical thinking and allows for more personalized expression compared to structured discussion prompts. Additionally, incorporating interactive activities such as virtual museum tours, art critiques, or debates using video conferencing tools can provide dynamic opportunities for students to interact and present their ideas visually and verbally. These alternatives not only diversify assignment formats but also cater to different learning styles and interests within an online art history course.