privileged voice?

Someone’s voice was privileged over others today, in my opinion. It is not good nor bad, just an observation. I also wanted to know if there is a way to get site statistics on replying and participation behaviors – e.g. how many replies per person, how many postings read per person, and how many log ons during a week by weekday. I also got to know that if I have a couple of students to help me observe the online discussion, it will be allowed. My students will be observers while I will be an active participant. My students will not participate.