I’ve graded the web development discussion just in time for you to have the feedback before the APIs and web security discussion. Be sure to look at the associated grading rubric (in Blackboard) and let me know if you have questions or concerns about your grade. I’ve highlighted some common issues below.

First, not an insignificant number of you either failed to complete the discussion assignment or submitted part of it late. While I recognize that the transition to an online course is challenging, remember that most lessons in this course have something that you’re expected to submit (most commonly a discussion or quiz), which is how I’m tracking participation. If you aren’t submitting the assignments, it’s a major red flag and I will follow up with AOCs, etc. if necessary. Also, all the discussions are split across two lessons – one for the initial post and the next for your response to someone else’s post. These are due on M-days. If you were less than 24 hours late for one part of this discussion, I overlooked it on this occasion, but I will start imposing a late penalty if either part is late in the future.

Second, a fair number of responses to others’ posts were superficial. Remember that all posts should add something to the discussion and simple agreement does not address this goal. That isn’t to say that you cannot concur with someone else’s prior statement, but that concurrence does not warrant credit for the response. Great responses add more details, such as asking and answering a question from when you read the original post.

Third, do your best to make posts standalone. For example, many of you commented on aspects of particular websites’ design, and it would be very helpful if you included a screenshot to illustrate your point(s). Before you click the submit button, try to see your post from the perspective of someone reading it, and take an extra minute or two to make it easier to read. This kind of “nicety” is what moves you from 4.5 / 5.0 points (i.e., a post that fully addresses the prompt) to 5.0 / 5.0 points (i.e., an exceptional post) in my mind.

I hope that you find this information helpful as you participate in the second discussion forum this week.