Leading a Discussion

1. Communicate clear expectation at the start of the course, possibly in the syllabus.

2. Define the purpose of the discussion. Where will you lead students?

3. Plan the session.

   	Prepare students for the discussion with expectations and assignments.
   	Have a series of questions or points to include.
   	Arrange the classroom strategically.
   	Choose the discussion format.
   	Choose when to mandate student participation.
   	Have a variety of activities ready.
   	Include time for concluding, debriefing, processing.

4. Conduct the discussion

5.  Evaluate the discussion and plan next steps.

 

Drs. Cavanaugh 2001