For Smaller / Discussion-Based Courses → Read. Journal. Live Discussion.
In a small seminar, students will probably read one or more resources before class, think through how the materials relate to themselves, to the major themes of the course, and to other course materials. Then, students come to class prepared to make sense of what they have read with the group. There may be a bit of lecture from the professor and a lot of discussion among the seminar participants.
How would this class format work online? Consider this possible model as a place to start:
Read. Journal. Live Discussion.
- Create a Content Area in Blackboard. You could label this "Activities by Class" or "Required Readings." Either way, make sure to name the content area in a way that its contents are easily recognizable to students. Create folders in the content area for each class meeting. Outline clearly for students the specific steps they will need to complete the activities in the class meeting. What will the need to watch? Read? Complete? Submit? Discuss? Etc.
- Add/upload any required readings or other materials. You can upload a document or other file or you can link to library resources or online materials like websites. Make sure that the content is loaded into the corresponding content folder (step 1).
- Create space for thinking and reflection with a discussion board where students can submit their answers to prompts about the reading and video before they come to the live class for the discussion. These submissions can be submitted for a grade in the gradebook, or the instructor can just scan them before class to make sure students are all on the right track. Make sure to include the link to the discussion board in the corresponding content folder (step 1).
- Finally, set up a virtual classroom using a Zoom or Blackboard Collaborate Ultra meeting for the day and time your class normally meets. Make sure to include the link in the corresponding content folder (step 1).
Note: These strategies and all associated content have been reused and adapted from Vanderbilt University's blog post "Putting some of your course content online in a hurry? We have resources for you!"
