A note on discussion boards

Prior to sumbitting this "Learning log" I thought it would be worth reflecting on the WebCT discussion board. The discussion board has been a hugh part of my sense of involvement in this unit. As a newbie to online learning I found it fascinating and essential.

When people hear that I am studing online, they ask if it is like corespondance? To which I point out that with the intraction between students and availablity of iLectures and tutor, online learning is more comparible to "real" learning than to learning by correspondance.

Much of this sense of belonging can be attributed to the discussion board, which has dynamics all of its own. As part of our assessment we are to participate in the discussion boards, but it was not detailed on how much we participate. Some students have participated enoumously, others not at all. I must admit too taking more from the discussion boards than giving, however it is only due to lack of confidence and knowledge that I have been more a lurker than contributor.

Glenys, a fellow Net11 student noted on her Learning log that the discussion board can shake ones confidence. I agree with Glenys and during this unit have had have a great deal of belief in my own ability to learn especially when reading some of the discussion board posts ; )