How to Create a Forum
If you are an authenticated user, you can request a forum be developed by completing a “project proposal” which is linked in the top menu bar. It is important to note if your forum is public (anyone can access and all authenticated users can comment) or private (only invited members can view and comment). A search of existing proposals can be done by clicking on the “search projects” in the top menu.
Once your form is approved, open the Local2Global website and click on the “create content” link in the left menu bar. Click on “forum topic”. Add a title for your forum.
Your forum will be found in a “container” which holds forums dealing with similar subject matter. Your “container” is based on the academic subject area you submitted in your proposal. You should find your forum already listed in the “forum “box once it has been approved. Please contact the site administrator if a new “container” needs to be created.
Add the parameters of the forum in the “body” section. If it is a classroom forum, you may want to provide an outline of the program by week. What is the purpose of the forum? Hyperlinks to other websites can be added to the body of your forum. A few examples have been created for your reference.
It is suggested to leave the “input format” as “full html”. Please ignore the “notifications” area.
Files can be attached to your blog by clicking on the “file attachments”. Please note the document formats which can be used are: jpg jpeg gif png txt doc xls pdf ppt pps odt ods odp docx psd. The attachments are the readings, images and other items you want your students to review and add comment . Documents can be added all at once or added as needed (a few each week of the project).
Press “save” at the bottom of the page.
You have created a forum!
You can access your forum by clicking on “Forums” in the top menu. Students can be invited to your forum by using the “refer a friend” link in the bottom left menu.
In a public forum, authenticated users can read and comment on your forum by clicking on the “add new comment” below your initial post. If your forum is private, it can be found by clicking on the “groups” menu in the left menu bar. Only people who have been invited to participate in the forum will be able to comment or view the materials.
You can add a profile picture by clicking on “my account” in the left menu. Click on the “edit” menu item on the top menu bar. Scroll down to the “picture” section and down load your favorite picture. Please keep in mind issues of appropriateness. Remember to press the save button at the bottom of the page.
Comments and suggestions on improving the forum capabilities are welcomed.