Template: Multiple ways to Respond to a Discussion Blurbs
Giving our students options with how they interact with our discussion is a powerful component of building Universal Design for Learning (UDL) principles into a course. When students are given a choice they are empowered to express their learning in a way that works best for them. In addition we have included a blurb that encourages students to write how they speak, creating space for them to respond in a way that feels organic and natural.
Simply copy and paste the following blurbs into your discussion post instructions to create a UDL aligned discussion prompt.
Options for Discussion Submission Blurb
Respond to this discussion either in writing or, if you prefer, a video or audio recoding.
- How to submit a video response to a discussion:
- Follow the instructions on How to respond with a video of yourself to a discussion board using a laptop Links to an external site.
- Follow these instructions on How to respond with a video of yourself to a discussion board using a smartphone Links to an external site.
- How to submit an audio response to a discussion:
- Follow the instructions on How to respond with an audio file to a discussion board using a laptop Links to an external site.
Encouraging Student to Write How They Speak Blurb
Write how you speak! Be comfortable expressing yourself in the manner you would if this were a face-to-face discussion. Spelling and grammar will NOT be graded in discussions, but be sure that you review your posts to ensure you are conveying the message you wish to share with the class, as online communication lacks the nonverbal cues of face-to-face communication. If you prefer communicating verbally feel free to select the video or audio reply option for your discussion post.
Please keep in mind online writing etiquette (netiquette). The use of profanity, bullying, etc. will not be tolerated. Posts and Comments should be kind and insightful.