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Teaching Tips > Facilitating In-Class Discussions > Picking Good Discussion Topics

Picking Good Discussion Topics

In-class discussions can help students develop critical thinking skills, but effective discussions require structure and planning.

Garside, C. (1996). Look who's talking: A comparison of lecture and group discussion teaching strategies in developing critical thinking skills.

 

Related tips:
Facilitating In-Class Discussions: Facilitating a Coherent Discussion
Facilitating In-Class Discussions: Working with Quiet Students
Facilitating In-Class Discussions: Working with Oversharers

Provide structure and best practices if students lead discussions to ensure that the discussion meets your goals for non-presenters.

Assign students to participate in different sides of a debate to provide structure to the discussion

Have students contribute discussion questions to encourage students to think more critically about the class materials.

Tell students what why discussion is important to help students understand your expectations and focus their attention appropriately.

Other Resources

  • Pomona College's Teaching and Learning Center
  • Claremont Colleges Center for Teaching and Learning
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