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 Friday of each week. Two additional responses are required after Friday 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. When sentencing an offender, a judge must evaluate a number of different variables to impose an appropriate course of punishment or treatment. Using the textbook, library, Internet, or Web resources, research the variables that should be considered at the time an offender is sentenced to ensure that justice is served. Please discuss 5 variables. Assignment Guidelines: •In 4–6 paragraphs, address the following: ◦What are 5 variables evaluated by judicial authorities to sentence offenders? ◦Which variable do you feel is the most important for correctly sentencing offenders? Explain. ◦Which variable do you feel is the least important for correctly sentencing offenders? Explain. ◦Are there any variables that you do not feel should be used when sentencing offenders? Why or why not? •Post a new topic to the Discussion Board that contains your responses pertaining to the above information. •Comment on at least 2 other students’ posts, and explain to them whether or not you agree with their variable selections. Use research evidence to support your responses. In your own words, please post a response to the Discussion Board and comment on 2 other postings. You will be graded on the quality of your postings. For assistance with your assignment, please use your text, Web resources, and all course materials.