The Discussion Board (DB) is part of the core of online learning. Classroom discussion in an online environment requires the active participation of students and the instructor to create robust interaction and dialogue. Every student is expected to create an original response to the open-ended DB question as well as engage in dialogue by responding to posts created by others throughout the week. At the end of each unit, DB participation will be assessed based on both level of engagement and the quality of the contribution to the discussion.

At a minimum, each student will be expected to post an original and thoughtful response to the DB question and contribute to the weekly dialogue by responding to at least two other posts from students. The first contribution must be posted before midnight (Central Time) on Wednesday of each week. Two additional responses are required after Wednesday of each week. Students are highly encouraged to engage on the Discussion Board early and often, as that is the primary way the university tracks class attendance and participation.

The purpose of the Discussion Board is to allow students to learn through sharing ideas and experiences as they relate to course content and the DB question. Because it is not possible to engage in two-way dialogue after a conversation has ended, no posts to the DB will be accepted after the end of each week.

A. Questions for weekly discussions and conversations (not part of the required Discussion Board assignment)

These questions can serve as the starting point for your discussions during the week. They are “thought starters,” so that you can explore some ideas associated with the discussion board and unit topics. Answers are not required, and should not be submitted with your required assignment. Answers are not graded.

1. Do we as a society over-medicate our citizens?
2. How is diet connected with neurotransmitter production?

B. Required Discussion Board assignment.

Neurotransmitters play a vital role in both our minds and bodies. For this discussion, you will explore the role of neurotransmitters and share your findings on the discussion board.   

• Describe neurotransmitters. Explain what they are, their function within the body, and their impact on behavior. 
• Describe the connection between neurons and neurotransmitters. 
• Choose two neurotransmitters and discuss their function within the body. Discuss both neurotransmitters’  connection with disease and disorders. Include aspects of the diseases. Address the following question: 
  • Does a neurotransmitter problem cause the disease, or does the disease cause a problem with the neurotransmitter? 
  • What is the relationship between transmitter function and a particular disease or disorder? 

Post your findings to the discussion board. Choose the postings of at least two other students  and review that student’s work. Pose questions to the students for clarifications where necessary and comment on the postings.   

 For assistance with your assignment, please use your text, Web resources, and all course materials. Please refer to the following multimedia course material(s): 

• Week 2 – The Sensation & Perception of Psychology
• Week 2 – Sensation and Perception
• Week 2 – The Brain and Consciousness
• Week 2 – The Nervous System
• Week 2 – FAQ: Sensation and Perception

Be sure to document your references in APA format.

In your own words, please post a response to the Discussion Board and comment on other postings. You will be graded on the quality of your postings. 

Grading Guidelines