This document provides an overview of maximizing the usage of discussion forums on a digital learning environment (DLE). It defines what forums are, some common features, and examples of where they are used. It then discusses how forums can be used specifically for e-learning, including asking questions, enhancing understanding, and post-course support. Finally, it provides tips for making forums successful, such as having a moderator, purpose, recognizing contributions, seeding initial content, and letting debate happen organically.

1. Maximising the usage of your DLE forums

2. Hello!Aine Bradleyaine@learningpool.comDave Briggsdave@learningpool.com@davebriggs

3. How this worksPresentation from DaveDemonstration from AineQuestions – type them in!PollsWhat happens next

4. What we’ll coverWhat are web forums?How can they be usedMaking them a successHow they work in the DLE

5. What are web forums?

6. Defining forumsAll about conversationsAsynchronous (not live)ArchivingStructure (forums/topics/threads)User hierarchy (mods and admins)

7. Some common featuresUser profilesAvatarsRankingsQuotingFiles, media

8. Where you’ll find themStandalone forumsAttached to a content driven sitePart of a social networkWithin another application

9. Examples of forums

15. Using forums in e-learning

16. Forums in e-learningAsking questions and clarifying learning pointsDiscussing issues to enhance understandingPost course supportDiscussion of related issues

17. Making a success of forums

18. You need to:Have someone looking after itHave a purposeRecognise contributionsEncourage recruitmentSeed contentLet debate happen

19. Over to Aine…

20. Question time

21. What’s nextSurveyWe’ll send presentation and link to recordingGet in touch with your account manager to find out moreDiscuss with the rest of the community in our forums!

22. Thank you for tuning in!