Discussion Forums

What Computer and Internet skills do I need to participate in an online forum?
A basic knowledge of computers and skills in using a web browser like Internet Explorer or Netscape.

What hardware/software requirements do I need?
Any PC or Macintosh computer configured for either a modem dial-up or network connection to the Internet. Your Internet connection speed should be at least 28,800 bps for best results but it will still work (though slower) at a lower speed connection. You will also need www browser software like Internet Explorer v3.x or better OR Netscape v3.x or better.

What are web-based Discussion Forums?
Web-based discussion forums are a form of group communication. They are web-hosted services and you require a web-browser to participate. The Connecting the Continent event will use the EdNA (Education Network Australia) hosted discussion forum software.

How to use web-based discussion as a communication tool for your projects or work
You post (key-in) written messages on an electronic board that people can read and reply to at whatever time they like. It is sometimes called asynchronous discussion meaning it is time independent. For more information on how to use the EdNA discussion tool visit http://forum.edna.edu.au and read the online tutorial.

What is Chat?
Chat is a real-time communication option that enables you to converse with others who are connected at the same time as you are. The Connecting the Continent event will use the EdNA (Education Network Australia) hosted chat software. These chat facilities are web-based and therefore are not as restrictive as other chat programs that conflict with network security services such as fire-walls. Chat is sometimes called synchronous (real time) discussion. For more information on how to use the EdNA chat tool visit http://forum.edna.edu.au and read the online tutorial.

Professional Development in using online Discussion Forums and Chats
There will be online Professional Development opportunities both before and during the Connecting the Continent online event. Keep your eyes on the news section and the online calendar for further details.

Ideas for the classroom

Tips
It is important in an organised chat or online discussion forum that participants stay focused on the topic and not start a side discussion.

It is beneficial to have as many students as possible participate within a class. Think outside of the classroom - online discussion forums do not have to occur in a formal computer room. Some models that have been successfully used by teachers are:

• Small groups of students with a group name (identity) around a computer.
• Use a data show projector and link to 1 computer. This then gives the freedom of a class discussion while the online forum discussions are being run. The class can participate in forming questions together and students take it in turns of typing.
• One computer per student. For this model, teachers need to be aware that general chatter and side conversations must be monitored.
• When there are many opportunities for participation in chat and online forums perhaps have part of the class participate and feedback to the rest of the class about the forum guest, topics and conversations.
• Encourage students to log on at night time and participate