What happens when you come up with the perfect contribution to a class discussion at 3:00 am the morning after class? Or when you know that a colleague made a brilliant response to a group of readings, but you can't remember exactly what s/he said? Electronic communication can help (but not perform miracles!). 

Townhall, an asynchronous (we aren't logged on at the same time - it archives the material) discussion database, allows us to create a permanent record of responses and reactions to readings and revisit class discussions. As we respond online, week by week, to readings, we create an archive of ideas that serves both as an reference for class discussions and as a long term resource for research papers and other assignments. Townhall is available for writing and reading twenty four hours a day (barring server problems): you may post comments at 3:-00 am if you like. Here are the logistics. 

Each week, all writers in the class will post before the our chosen date their responses to the assigned readings. Responses to readings should be posted by...to be decided by class!. 

Each writer will also be responsible for posting a response to at least two other class member's postings. Please be courteous if you choose to disagree with someone's perspective.  Don't use emotional responses the discussion. Respond with logical 
explanations and examples to support your views, both in agreement and in disagreement. Feel free to could include a reference to a web site, a comment on the work carried out in class, a cross reference to another reading or work from another class, etc. 

Each week, three/four students (assigned by rota) will lead class discussions based on the readings. Presentations should reflect not only the group's ideas but also consider the responses posted to Townhall on those readings. We're looking for well-informed, imaginative presentations, where your own thinking/reading will complement the material from fellow writers and the textbooks. 

Everyone will be expected contribute to this discussion forum. Your townhall postings and leadership of class discussions will contribute 10% to the final grade.