Threads are a series of posts related to a similar topic. When creating a forum, the Instructor has the option of allowing or not allowing users to start threads. If threads are graded, users cannot start threads. Generally, the purpose of the forum will dictate whether or not users can start threads. A moderated, graded forum used to evaluate student performance will usually be tightly controlled. In this case, it would not be appropriate to allow users to create threads. Other forums are designed for users to share opinions and thoughts on tangential or unrelated topics. In this case, it is safe to allow users to create threads and spark discussions.
Follow these steps to start a thread.
Open a Discussion Board Forum.
Click Add Thread in the action bar. The Add Thread page will appear.
Enter a Subject and a Message. It is also possible to attach files to the post.
Click Save to store a draft of the post or click Submit to create the thread.