There are two ways for students to post in a discussion forum: create a new thread or reply to a post.
Create a New Thread
The instructor may or may not have this option available. If it is not available, you will only be able to reply to an existing post.
- Go to the Discussions area of the course. You'll see a link in the Course Menu on the left; some instructors will also link directly to individual discussions within the course.
- Locate the assigned forum and read any directions given in the description area.
- Click on the name of the forum to open it.
- Click on the Create Thread button.
- Enter a subject for your thread and type your message.
- When you're done, click the Submit button located at the bottom of the page.
If you click Save Draft, neither your instructor nor your classmates will be able to see your post. If you save a post to finish later, don't forget to submit it when you do finish it.
Reply to a Post
- Go to the Discussions area of the course. You'll see a link in the Course Menu on the left; some instructors will also link directly to discussions within the course.
- Find the assigned forum and read any directions given in the description area.
- Click on the name of the forum to open it.
- Read the post and then click the Reply button or the Quote button. Selecting the Quote button will display the text of the posting you are replying to in your post.
- Enter your reply in the Message area and click Submit.
Post-First Discussion Forum
Some instructors may use a feature called Post First. If this feature is enabled, you will not be able to read your classmates’ posts until you make a post. When you click on the link to participate in the forum you will get a message that tells you to create a thread to join the conversation. Once you create your own thread you will be able to see your classmates’ posts.