Below are some typical learner tasks during a module and some example facilitator responses. 

During the discussion (about half of the learners have posted), support engagement by complimenting contributions and encouraging further contributions. For example:

I’m enjoying reading through people’s thoughts. [Learner A] your comment about [w] made me think about [x]. And [Learner B] your thoughts align really well with [y – theory/person/idea/trend]. Great work!I encourage others to keep contributing [can include time period e.g. “over the next week”]. It’s really worthwhile to see how each of you [approach/interpret z].

Or if the discussion hasn’t taken off… 

I see we’ve only got a few contributions so far. For those yet to post, please take a moment to add your own thoughts – even if it’s only to say you agree with someone. It’s really worthwhile to see how each of you [approach/interpret z] and you taking the time to reflect and write your response will really help you with [outcome/assessment].

Once most learners have commented (or had the time to comment) summarise some of the common themes from the discussion. For example:

Great, most of you have explained that it’s completely okay to use other people’s work as long as they’ve given permission (and usually acknowledge the original). It’s also fine if the work is under “creative commons” (cc) as you saw in the video above.

Another example
Most of you decided to pick the photos without people, the ones that focused on the products (as that’s what’s the promotion is about!). That’s wonderful. Many of you also suggested a few of the photos might send the wrong message (for instance the second photo). There’s no real right or wrong answer for this discussion, what it is important to remember is to use professional and respectful images and that others from different backgrounds might react differently to photos than you do so it’s good to consider social and cultural factors. 

Respond to any questions posted in the talk channels, if appropriate, you can respond with a holding post that encourages other learners to step in. This can be appropriate where the answer could be contentious or relates to understanding a key concept (as learners are often better placed to explain to other novices). For example: 

That’s a great question [Learner A]. I want to encourage discussion about this question. So I wondered… does anyone else have any thoughts about [Learner’s] questions? Particularly [add clarification to help other learners help Learner A].