Academic Guides: Academic Skills: Classroom Skills

Discussion Boards

July 2021

Developing Discussion Board Peer Responses: 5 Tips from Current Walden Students

"While peer responses are typically a required element in your Walden courses, they also serve an important purpose – they allow you to exchange ideas, academically debate, and see topics through the perspectives of other people. "

July 2021

How to Develop a Successful Discussion Post: 5 Tips from Walden Students

"A dynamic discussion board lies at the heart of any productive online learning experience. In the absence of live or in-person class conversations, the discussion board serves as a space to reflect on course concepts, consider the views of others, and engage in thoughtful dialogue with classmates. "

Writing responses in discussions

Writing thoughtful peer responses to discussion posts is a significant part of the online learning experience. This resource offers strategies for providing constructive, specific, and professional feedback to peers.

Giving Constructive Feedback to Peers (PDF)

Professional Etiquette

The Importance of Professional Etiquette

In this interactive module, you’ll learn the importance of practicing etiquette in a virtual environment, as well as tips and strategies for establishing a professional image when studying from home.
Professional Etiquette as an Online Student (Module)

JULY 2019

5 Essential Tips for Email Etiquette

"Email has easily become one of the quickest ways to communicate, especially in online learning environments, where most forms of communication are virtual. Even so, communicating with staff and faculty can be daunting for students new to the online setting."

Learning and Growing from Feedback

In this video, you can learn ways to access your instructor's assignment feedback in the BlackBoard classroom.
Discover strategies to help you Learn and Grow from Instructor Feedback

Rubrics define grading criteria

Most instructors utilize a rubric to establish clear expectations for assignments. This resource breaks down a rubric and explains how to use one to self-improve and achieve higher grades.

A Guide to Rubrics (PDF)

Feedback and constructive criticism encourages your growth as a student

When you are unsure of how to interpret or apply an instructor’s feedback, reach out for clarification. This presentation offers a step-by-step guide to getting the support you need in understanding your instructor’s feedback.
Asking for Feedback Clarification (PDF)

Your instructor is your most valuable resource.

However, when it comes to reaching out to faculty members, you may feel intimidated. This presentation was designed to help you overcome those fears by offering advice on how and when to communicate with your instructor.
Communicating with Instructors (PDF)

Technology Skills

APRIL 2020

The Blackboard App: What Students Should Know

"As a student at Walden University, you already know you have the flexibility to meet coursework deadlines around your busy schedule."

June 2019

Becoming Tech Savvy at Walden University

"Going back to school in the online environment presents numerous challenges, including keeping files and documents organized, becoming comfortable with new software applications, and learning how to properly save and back up documents."

"Going back to school in the online environment presents numerous challenges. When beginning to explore the different technology tools that are available, start with what is provided from Walden."

Mitch Luker, Walden Peer Mentor

Shawn Picht provides a general overview of using the equipment you have to start filming yourself and being comfortable on camera.

Academic Skills:
Classroom Skills