1. What role or purpose do discussion forums serve in the online classroom and are they effective?

Yes they are effective as they create a community environment in the online classroom and offer students the opportunity to see different viewpoints.  In addition, discussion forums create a collaborative learning environment.  Students have the opportunity to improve writing and thinking skills.  Discussion forums can be used to meet specific course objectives and can be aligned with course content. Discussions topics can be created by the teacher which can actually improve critical thinking skills

2. How do discussion forums function as a teaching tool?

Discussion boards activities can see the value in what they are saying when they receive positive feedback and pointers on how to expand their discussions.  Students can also reflect on other students’ contributions and in addition, they can development online friendships which can improve collaboration.  .   Students learn from each other when they are sharing their ideas.  The students are actually a part of a learning community and interacting with their peers when they are participating in discussion activities.  Students are asked to reflect and to work together on projects, which prepares them for the real world. 

3. How could they be used effectively and ineffectively? Furthermore, what are some best practices for facilitating forums online?

Instructors should instruct their students about netiquette and what expectations are for discussion requirements. Teachers must explain the acceptable use policy and monitor the discussions regularly.   Also, showing students what quality responses look like are essential in guiding students how to properly respond to topics or other students.  If an instructor does not take an active part in the discussion board, students will not take it seriously and be motivated to be engaged in the discussion.  I really like peer review when used in a discussion board because it allows students to learn from each other when they are reading their replies.  This is quite effective but on the other hand, if teachers are not monitoring the discussions, and if the discussions are not being assessed, students will not make an effort to think critically or take the discussions seriously.