Discussion Basics
Discussions
Lectures are an efficient way to relay content. If your goal, however, is to have students learn application, develop communication skills, develop thinking skills, then the lecture is not a viable option. Discussions can help address these higher levels of learning. A discussion allows students to become more active participants in the classroom. Instructors, in a discussion, now become facilitators and must listen, observe, request examples, verify what individuals are saying as well as many other things. Discussions are relatively inefficient for relaying content. For more information about discussions:
University of North Carolina Center for Teaching and Learning
University of Southern California