Adapting Seminars or Discussion-Based Courses:
Solution: Read. Journal. Then Discuss.

In a small seminar, students read/watch assigned materials before class, think about the learning materials, connect the materials to the major themes of the course and to other course materials. Then, students come to class prepared to make sense of what they have read with the group. The professor clarifies misconceptions through short mini-lectures and through leading students through rich discussion prompts.

How would this class format work online? Consider this possible model as a place to start: 

Step 1: Create a module in Canvas to contain all the materials and activities for that topic. Make sure to name the module in a way that is descriptive to students.

Step 2: Add required readings or other materials to your module. You can upload a document, link to library resources or other online sites. You can also create a quick webcam recording giving students some of the supplemental information that you would normally say in class.

Step 3: Create a space for thinking and reflection by adding in a discussion forum or create an assignment where students can submit their answers to prompts about the reading/video. These private submissions can be submitted for a grade or you can just scan them to make sure students are on track.

Step 4: Meet on Zoom. If you want to bring the class together to discuss the materials in addition to the assignment/discussion forum options in Step 3, you can set up a Zoom room and place the link in your Canvas course. Choose a meeting time that works for your students such as the original class meeting time on the schedule. Record the Zoom classroom session and post the recording online in the Canvas module for any students who were unable to join because they didn’t have access to the Internet or a computer at that time.