Many students who do not post on time feel that their participation on the board really does not matter to overall discussions. What matters is they eventually post and receive credit. At some schools, I am capable of enforcing a no-tolerance rule where late posts are not accepted despite circumstances. However, in all fairness, at these schools posts are worth as little as 10 points as opposed to 50, 60 and 120. But nevertheless, when students do not post, I find it helpful to remind them that we were not able to hear their voice concerning the discussion, that what they have to say is important and merits being heard (or read). I will often ask while on the phone with them what they think about a topic and why. By reassuring them that what they have to say is important, I notice most make greater efforts to post on time. However, not all students respond to this approach. Please share how you encourage students to participate. It may help me to win over those who do not post.