Explain why participating in discussion is important to focus students’ attention on its many benefits and thereby motivate them to increase their participation.

Action:

  • Explain that you use in-class discussion to help students:

    • Learn from each other
    • Practice articulating their ideas about the topic
    • Identify and address misconceptions about the topic within the class
    • Extend their knowledge beyond the ideas in the readings or class materials

Reason:

  • Help students understand that discussion during class is designed to accomplish specific learning goals.