With an engaging course in which many students are active participants,
the number of messages posted within any course discussion forum can quickly
grow. When such a case presents itself, it is a good idea to give specific
minimum (and maximum if necessary) requirements concerning the number of
posts each student is required to submit. For example, in an ice-breaking
activity, you could require each student to post responses to 2 other student
posts chosen by selecting the student above and below that student in a
listing of students sorted by some criteria such as alphabetically by login.
When minimum requirements and other guidelines are given, students know
how much work is expected of them for the assignment, ensuring that they
will allocate enough time to do an adequate job and enabling them able
to prioritize their time. Even an active student can have a busy week in
which he/she must schedule time to properly meet this minimum requirement.