Encouraging discourse about subjects/topics outside of seminars can be achieved using a number of online tools/technologies. In most cases, staff need to tread carefully between providing a structure for meaningful dialogue, while ensuring they do not restrict the flow of conversation by giving students the freedom to express their ideas. Short prompts or cues can be used, however, to bring discussions back on topic if students wander off.

Consider using a range of the following tools/technologies to establish a platform for online discourse:

• Blogs
  Build communities of practice and encourage reflection and peer mentoring.
• Discussion Forums
  The bread-and-butter of online discussion based activities.
• Wikis
  Allow students to collect evidence/ideas together as an online scrapbook while providing a platform for discussion alongside.