The Discussion Board (DB) is part of the core of online learning. Classroom discussion in an online environment requires the active participation of students and the instructor to create robust interaction and dialogue. Every student is expected to create an original response to the open-ended DB question as well as engage in dialogue by responding to posts created by others throughout the week. At the end of each unit, DB participation will be assessed based on both level of engagement and the quality of the contribution to the discussion.

At a minimum, each student will be expected to post an original and thoughtful response to the DB question and contribute to the weekly dialogue by responding to at least two other posts from students. The first contribution must be posted before midnight (Central Time) on Wednesday of each week. Two additional responses are required after Wednesday of each week. Students are highly encouraged to engage on the Discussion Board early and often, as that is the primary way the university tracks class attendance and participation.

The purpose of the Discussion Board is to allow students to learn through sharing ideas and experiences as they relate to course content and the DB question. Because it is not possible to engage in two-way dialogue after a conversation has ended, no posts to the DB will be accepted after the end of each unit.

You are the lead investigator for a suspicious fire in the Novandon Fur Warehouse, which was cold storage for mink and sable fur coats. The fire scene investigative team tells you that the fire started in several points simultaneously, and it appears the telephone line that monitors the fire detection equipment has been cut. The fire was fully involved by the time the fire department arrived. The warehouse and the contents are a complete loss. You must consider the direction that your investigators must take to determine the possible motives for this fire. Direct them to look in at least 3 directions for a motive. Keep in mind the type of warehouse this was.

• Concerning the owner of the warehouse, what documentation would you get to help you establish potential motives? Why?
• When interviewing the owner of the warehouse, what specific threats might you ask about? Why?
• How would the owner’s responses be helpful? Explain.