ETP - Planning Effective Class Discussions

Rationale

“Just as an effective lecture takes preparation, planning, and structure in order to facilitate student learning, so does an effective discussion. An effective discussion in the college classroom is much less frequently the result of a lucky happenstance. It is more likely to be the result of forethought and intentional planning” (Howard, 2015, p. 4).

Practices

Ask or post open-ended, analytical, or opinion questions to increase participation
Sequence questions to progress toward higher order thinking
Provide guidance to help students develop questioning skills for productive online discussions
Explain the role of discussion in supporting learning
Develop a grading policy or discussion forum rubric with clear criteria
Respond with positive reinforcement, and prompt for elaboration and clarity
Assign a self-grading activity
Create a physical space or online environment conducive to discussions
Create small groups for more in-depth online discussions
Require students to apply content from assigned readings

This content is only available to Commons members. If you are a Commons member, this course content is available for those who have completed this ACUE course.

ETP - Planning Effective Class Discussions

Rationale

Practices

Ask or post open-ended, analytical, or opinion questions to increase participation

Sequence questions to progress toward higher order thinking

Provide guidance to help students develop questioning skills for productive online discussions

Explain the role of discussion in supporting learning

Develop a grading policy or discussion forum rubric with clear criteria

Respond with positive reinforcement, and prompt for elaboration and clarity

Assign a self-grading activity

Create a physical space or online environment conducive to discussions

Create small groups for more in-depth online discussions

Require students to apply content from assigned readings