Asynchronous discussion is discussion that occurs at different points in time. For example, the initial post for the discussion may be placed on the discussion board hours or days before the corresponding comments are posted. Those instructors who are accustomed to moderating discussions in face-to-face classes will find moderating online discussion to be similar. The online instructor must provide direction and leadership, prompt students to participate, question or redirect questions to focus student contributions, occasionally act as diplomat to defuse student debates that transgress acceptable boundaries of civility, and help students synthesize the overall content of discussion threads.

The Moderator's Home Page provides extensive information and resources related to moderating student communications.