Discussion Forums: Using The PHdd Strategy

Abstract

‘PHdd’ (Post, Harvest, display & discuss) is an advanced version of the more frequently used ‘forum post’ with two additional layers that embed learning through a summary display of key ideas posted, followed by an opportunity to discuss them in a subsequent learning episode. The strategy promotes critical thinking, analysis and evaluation. Summary of Teaching & Learning Context Participants are invited to respond to a learning trigger such as a question and post their response to the ‘discussion forum’ function in Moodle (or chosen VLE). A word limit can be set as desired. Participants can also be encouraged to respond to the posts of other students. Following a specified period of time (a week), the module leader or nominated student(s) collate a brief summary of key perspectives raised in the discussion thread (harvesting). These perspectives are then presented in a learning episode (tutorial, workshop or integrated into a lecture). The module leader then facilitates a group discussion based on the summary of ideas harvested from the discussion.