Discussion boards in online courses are probably one of the most misunderstood and potential-filled tools that exist in the online world. This misunderstanding leads to a lack-luster and obligatory use, which nobody enjoys or finds value in. The potential of discussion boards, though, lie in recognizing what they’re for.
They aren’t meant to take the place of in-class, live discussion. Nothing can replace that. But they are meant to provide a space for student-student interaction, student-instructor interaction, and discovery by all involved.
Here’s an awesome (short) video with some tips, if you’re wanting to make your discussion boards more awesome and less painful.
