- allows for synthesis of ideas
- allows for a more fluid learning environment
- increases student comfort in asking for help
- encourages critical thinking and evaluation of information
- fosters creativity

San Jose State University

Grinnell College

An indirect method of education that relies on open-ended questions and collaboration to further students' knowledge.

Discussion in Education

Ying, J. (2020)The Importance of the Discussion Method in the Undergraduate Business Classroom. Humanist Manag J 5, 251–278. https://doi.org/10.1007/s41463-020-00099-2

Discussion in the Classroom

Teo, P. (2019). Teaching for the 21st century: A case for dialogic pedagogy. Learning, Culture and Social Interaction 21, p. 170-178. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.lcsi.2019.03.009

Teaching for the 21st century: A case for dialogic pedagogy

- may put students on the spot
- harder to parse out main points of discussion

Cons of Discussion in Education

Pros of Discussion in Education

- Dialogism
- Sociocultural theory of learning
- Social constructivism

Theories of Dialogic Teaching

- overcrowded classrooms
- focus on curriculum and content
- lack of teacher training
- dismissal of constructivist approach to teaching
- reliance on direct instruction

Obstacles to Dialogic Teaching

- inquiry
- collaboration
- critical thinking
- teacher as co-learner
- knowledge as co-constructed and dynamic
- authentic problem-solving

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