Evaluation of discussion board reply posts can be done using a rubric that evaluates higher-order thinking, quality of writing, and proper online etiquette. The quality of discussion board postings can also be evaluated based on the extent to which they engage with course content and generate responses that fall at higher levels on the rubric. There are five levels or categories of online response posts that may help improve writing quality: minimal, acceptable, good, excellent, and exceptional.
- Evaluation: Minimal – A minimal evaluation level indicates that the post is incomplete, irrelevant, or fails to address the topic. It may also contain numerous errors in grammar, punctuation, and spelling.
- Evaluation: Acceptable – An acceptable evaluation level indicates that the post meets the minimum requirements of the assignment, but it lacks depth and critical thinking. It may also lack supporting evidence or contain errors in grammar, punctuation, and spelling.
- Evaluation: Good – A good evaluation level indicates that the post is well-written, clear, and concise. It provides a relevant and thoughtful response to the topic, and it uses evidence to support its arguments effectively. It may also demonstrate critical thinking, analysis, and creativity.
- Evaluation: Excellent – An excellent evaluation level indicates that the post is exceptional in its writing, content, and critical thinking. It provides a well-constructed and insightful response to the topic, and it uses evidence to support its arguments effectively. It may also demonstrate originality, creativity, and synthesis of ideas.
- Evaluation: Exceptional – An exceptional evaluation level indicates that the post is outstanding in its writing, content, and critical thinking. It provides a comprehensive and insightful response to the topic, and it uses evidence to support its arguments effectively. It may also demonstrate originality, creativity, and synthesis of ideas at a very high level.
Primary criteria used to evaluate discussion board posts include responsiveness to the topic presented, critical thinking and analysis, quality of writing, and ability to articulate ideas clearly. By striving for higher evaluation levels in their discussion board reply posts, students can engage in more meaningful and productive discussions, enhance their critical thinking skills, and contribute to a more collaborative learning community.