Setup Small Group Discussion

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Overview

Small group discussion allows a teacher to break their class into smaller discussion groups. Private discussion forums may be created separately for each group.

If you need information on how to add the Discussions tool to your course, see Adding a New Tool.


Step 1: Create Student Groups

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First, create groups of students. For example, you may create 10 groups of 10 students automatically using this method.

There are 3 methods of adding students to groups. You can randomly select students for groups. You can also select specific students for groups, or you can setup a sign-up sheet so your students can select their own groups.

  • Under the Teach Tab, go to the Group Manager tool
  • Click Create Groups

  • Select one of the three methods of creating groups:

Method 1: Custom Groups

  • Custom Groups allows you to selectively add students students to a group. Use this option to build a group for Disability Quiz Accommodation
  • Fill out the group name and use Add Members to build the group

Method 2: Randomized Groups

  • Randomized Groups allows you to divide the class into a set number of groups with students assigned to them automatically

Method 3: Sign-Up Groups

  • Sign-Up Groups allows the students the opportunity to sign up for the group that they want to be in


Step 2: Automatically Create Discussions Topics for Groups

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  • Under the Teach tab select the Group Manager
  • Select the check box at the top of the groups to check all of the groups, or select each one individually.
  • Next to Create Group Activity, select Discussion topic
  • Press the Go go button

  • Select the type of Discussion topic you want
  • Press the Next button

  • Enter a Title for the Discussion
  • Set your Grading preference
  • Press the Save button

  • You will find your new Discussion Groups under the Discussion tool.


Manually Create Discussion Topics for Groups

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To edit who is able to post and view a topic:

  • Click on Discussions.
  • Click on the ActionLinks ActionLinks icon icon for the topic you wish to edit, and select Set Release Criteria.

  • Click on Add Group Criteria or Add Member Criteria if you are making topics specific for individuals.

  • Select the members/group you wish to allow to edit and post to this topic.
  • Click Save.

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