Graduate Certificate in Implementing Effective Online Discussion Techniques
Published on June 18, 2025
About this Podcast
HOST: Welcome to our podcast, where we explore innovative courses and interview experts in their fields. I'm thrilled to introduce our guest today, an experienced educator who has designed a Graduate Certificate in Implementing Effective Online Discussion Techniques. Welcome! Can you please tell us a bit about your background and how you got involved in this area? GUEST: Thanks for having me! I've been an educator for over 15 years, and during the pandemic, I found myself needing to adapt quickly to online teaching. I realized there was a lack of resources for creating engaging online discussions, so I decided to create this course. HOST: That's fantastic. Now, let's talk about the course itself. What are some best practices for designing interactive discussions that you cover in the program? GUEST: We discuss the importance of clear objectives, scaffolding questions, and incorporating various multimedia elements. Also, using online collaboration tools like breakout rooms and discussion forums effectively is crucial. HOST: Speaking of online collaboration tools, what are some current trends or popular tools being used in the industry right now? GUEST: There's been a shift towards more interactive and immersive tools, like virtual reality and augmented reality. Platforms like Miro, Google Jamboard, and Padlet are also popular for visual collaboration. HOST: It sounds like there's a lot to consider when facilitating online discussions. What are some common challenges educators face while learning or teaching this subject? GUEST: Time management and staying up-to-date with new technologies can be challenging. Additionally, engaging students and fostering a sense of community in a virtual environment can be difficult. HOST: Absolutely. Now, let's look to the future. How do you see online discussion techniques evolving over the next few years? GUEST: I believe we'll see more personalized and adaptive learning experiences, as AI and machine learning continue to advance. Also, the integration of immersive technologies, like virtual reality, will likely become more prevalent. HOST: It's an exciting time for online education. Thank you for sharing your insights and experiences with us today. And for our listeners, if you're interested in elevating your teaching skills and transforming your online courses, be sure to check out the Graduate Certificate in Implementing Effective Online Discussion Techniques. Thanks again, and see you next time on our podcast!
