This paper reported using the practical inquiry model as discourse guide to facilitate students' critical thinking in online discussion. It was found that almost all the postings of the students who had no knowledge of the inquiry model fell into exploration phase except three postings in triggering events phase and two in integration phase. In comparison, the postings of the students
who used the model as the guide included more instances of integration than the postings of
those who did not know about the model. No instance in resolution phase was found. The
findings indicated that providing students inquiry model raised their awareness of critical
thinking and helped them intentionally engage in reflection and higher-order thinking when
responding online.
"This module focuses on how to assess student messages in an online discussion forum when teaching in an online environment. This module is part of the Best Practices in Online Teaching Course created by Penn State University World Campus as a guide for faculty who are new to teaching in an online environment."
"Thousands of educators across the country use the Understanding by Design framework, created by the late Grant Wiggins and Jay McTighe, to get a handle on standards, align programs to assessments, and guide teachers in implementing a standards-based curriculum that leads to student understanding and achievement. "
INTRODUCTION: WHAT IS UbD™ FRAMEWORK?
The Understanding by Design® framework (UbD™ framework) offers a planning process and structure to guide curriculum, assessment, and instruction. Its two key ideas are contained in the title: 1) focus on teaching and assessing for understanding and learning transfer, and 2) design curriculum "backward" from hose ends.