Criteria

Level 4 – Excellent

Level 3 – Proficient

Level 2 – Developing

Level 1 – Emerging

Quality of Initial Posting (first discussion only)

4 points

Initial posting reveals a clear understanding of all aspects of the threaded discussion question; uses factual and relevant information; and demonstrates full development of concepts.

3 points

Initial posting demonstrates legitimate reflection and answers most aspects of the threaded discussion question; full development of concepts is not evidenced.

2 points

Initial posting demonstrates some reflection and answers some aspects of the threaded discussion question; Limited development of concepts is evident.

1 point

Initial posting was not on topic; the response was unrelated to threaded discussion question; and post demonstrated only superficial thought and poor preparation.

Quality of Responses to Classmates

6 points

Responded to the required number of students and to the professor, if appropriate, for every discussion. Demonstrated analysis of others’ posts; extends meaningful discussions by building on previous peer posts and offering alternative perspectives.

5 points

Responded to almost all of the required students and to the professor, if appropriate, for every discussion. Provided comments and new information to other posts; not all responses promote further discussion of the topic.

4 points

Responded to some students and to the professor, if appropriate, for every discussion. Little depth in response; agreed or acknowledged one other classmate’s initial posting.

3 points

Did not respond to any student or the professor.

Reference to Supporting Readings/Information Literacy

3 points

Refers to and properly cites either course and/or outside readings in both initial posting and responses to peers.

2 points

Refers to and properly cites course and/or outside reading in initial posting only.

1 point

Makes some reference to assigned readings with some citations or cites questionable sources. 

0 points

Makes no reference to assigned readings without citations or cites questionable sources.

Critical Thinking

4 points

Demonstrates mastery conceptualizing the problem; viewpoints and assumptions of experts are analyzed, synthesized, and evaluated; and conclusions are logically presented with appropriate rationale.

3 points

Demonstrates considerable proficiency conceptualizing the problem; viewpoints and assumptions of experts are analyzed, synthesized, and evaluated; and conclusions are presented with necessary rationale.

2 points

Demonstrates partial proficiency conceptualizing the problem; viewpoints and assumptions of experts are analyzed, synthesized, and evaluated; and conclusions are somewhat consistent with the analysis and findings.

1 point

Demonstrates limited or poor proficiency conceptualizing the problem; viewpoints and assumptions of experts are analyzed, synthesized, and evaluated; and conclusions are either absent or poorly conceived and supported.

Timeliness

3 points

Initial post occurs in a timely manner (1 – 3 days into module) allowing ample time for classmates to respond and engage.

2 points

Initial post occurs later (4 – 5 days into module) allowing limited time for classmates to respond and engage.

1 point

Initial post occurs substantially late (6-7 days into module) allowing minimal to no time for classmates to respond and engage. 

0 points

Initial post occurs after the first week of the module. 

Overall Score

Level 4 18 or more

Level 3 16 or more

Level 2 14 or more

Level 1 0 or more