Question: The Discussion Question Responses are intended to engage students in critical thinking using psychological science. Some of these questions may pertain to issues that may be considered controversial by some students. Scientific findings and facts from methodologically sound, independently replicated research published in reputable, peer-reviewed professional journals, can serve to responsibly inform public knowledge on these and other topics relevant to psychological science. The intent of the discussion questions is to do just that. Rather than simply writing a personal opinion or anecdote (personal or hearsay story) without supportive scientific evidence, the intent in the discussions is for students to familiarize themselves with the research findings from psychological science as presented in the textbook and to engage in science-supported analysis and application with regard to the posed questions. When composing their responses to the discussion questions, students must address each part of the question fully and cite (using parenthetical in-text citations in APA style, see example thread below) the relevant scientific evidence/research findings presented in the chapters that supports their response. The professor reads each and every student discussion question response and leaves feedback for individual student threads in the discussion forum for that chapter. Students are strongly encouraged to read this feedback once grades from that week's discussion have been posted by the professor. Poor quality responses (threads) that do not directly or adequately address the question or do not cite supportive evidence presented in the textbook will not receive credit. If either the 75 word original thread or the reply is missing five (5) points will be deducted. Students should proofread and spell-check their discussion responses before posting as points may be deducted for spelling and grammatical errors. The requirements for the two posts are as follows:
1) The original response (called the "thread") must be a minimum of 75 words and contain the student's original and thoughtful response to the discussion question posed. The thread must be directly germane to the question posed. Students must post this original thread first before having access to read the threads of classmates. This is to ensure original responses that do not simply mimic those of classmates. Threads that reflect plagiarism will be regarded as academic misconduct and consequated accordingly.