Somethings Changed After Winter Break..

Is it just me or do discussion posts both feel and get graded like they are research papers now?

A little background info for context here, I've been in attendance at SNHU for the last 2 years and will graduate in May. For these last 2 years, the requirements have been pretty straightforward for every single class:

• Use an organized, clear point of view or idea while using rich and significant detail.
• Apply concepts from that week's reading materials.
• Provide real-world examples that are relative to the subject matter.
• Provide parenthetical citations to the examples when available, research that validates claims, and any counterarguments that provide a more objectional and holistic viewpoint to the subject matter.
• Provide reference list.
• Follow APA guidelines.
• Follow the rubric.

Using the said formula and applying learned concepts during my tenure, the majority of work produced thus far has been exceptional, or in the rubrics grading case "Exceeding Expectations or Exemplary". Although it has been very time-consuming and exhausting at times, it has been very rewarding nonetheless. However, while maintaining this same level of time, dedication, and determination, I have noticed in week 4 now of the new term that I have been getting graded more harshly, simply in discussion points and being asked to continue "digging deeper" and providing "more sources" and "specific examples" relative to the subject matter that week. This has in turn raised the grading standard and the challenge to incorporate said feedback has now made these discussions feel like writing journals or assignments themselves. What I mean by that is what was typically a 3-4 paragraph discussion adhering to the aforementioned formula, it has now turned into an almost 2-3 page discussion post (both initial and replies) with a minimum of 3-4 APA sources, with references list, in each discussion.

I should also note too, that alot of the criteria in the rubrics are starting to seem subjective in nature. For example, to exceed expectations in comprehension, one must "Develop an initial post with an organized, clear point of view or idea using rich and significant detail". I've now had to ask myself do I really need to ask the professor to please define for me what "rich" and "significant" detail means to them in correlation to each class, because when I was using the same "rich and significant" detail for my philosophy class, it garnered a much different grading and feedback response from say my social sciences professor.

This overall change in dynamic in discussion posts and responses is not just limited to one class or professor. It has been applied and felt in all classes now being taken this term.

All that being said, I'm still grateful for the experience and journey here as I have learned quite a lot that will be useful to me in the future. I don't have any intent in challenging or questioning this with my teachers or advisors, rather I am just genuinely curious if there are others in the same boat here that may be seeing, feeling, or experiencing this, even if from a different perspective.

Thank you.