The best online courses create learning communities in which all learners have a sense that they are part of a friendly, supportive group. They eagerly post in the forums, and they respond to each other quickly in a positive and productive way. They share their thoughts, impressions, and one starts to feel as though people are really getting to know each other. Learning is fun, even exhilarating. Some students can't wait to log on and participate.
There are a few tried and tested ways to optimize the interactive forum experience. Here is a brief list:
Provide timely feedback and make sure that you maintain a positive and productive tone
Be sure to provide positive, encouraging suggestions
Post questions that are engaging and which tie to learning objectives
Encourage individuals to connect the course material to personal experience, and then post about it
Make participation in the forums a part of the students' grades
Model positive...