Author suggested some simple, common-sense methods for running a good instructional discussion. (Author/RK)

Describes problem-solving training provided by the Discovery Program, a series of structured group discussions about common personal and social problems and how to cope with them. Discusses the program's advantages over other methods of teaching problem-solving skills. (SV)

College instructors can design discussion classes so that students use the concepts and processes of the discipline to evaluate facts and move toward reliable conclusions. Described are: discussion as a cycle of inquiry; creating tension around ideas; seeking causal relationships; scanning the factual base, etc. (MLW)

How can the secondary Geometry course serve as an opportunity for students to learn to "be like" a mathematician--that is, to acquire a mathematical sensibility? In the first part of this dissertation, I investigate what might be meant by "mathematical sensibility". By analyzing narratives of mathematicians and their work, I identify a collection…

This document presents the proceedings of the 20th Annual Research Forum held June 25, 2015, at Wake Forest University in Winston-Salem, North Carolina. Included are the following 21 action research papers: (1) History Lives! The Use of Simulations in a High School Social Studies Classroom (Lydia Adkins); (2) Using Francophone Music in the High…

This study demonstrates an existence proof for "productive failure": engaging students in solving complex, ill-structured problems without the provision of support structures can be a productive exercise in failure. In a computer-supported collaborative learning setting, eleventh-grade science students were randomly assigned to one of…

For the past 3 yr, faculty at the University of New Mexico, Department of Biochemistry and Molecular Biology have been using interactive online Problem-Based Learning (PBL) case discussions in our large-enrollment classes. We have developed an illustrative tracking method to monitor student use of problem-solving strategies to provide targeted…

Based on the view that strengthening families and neighborhoods can improve the life chances of vulnerable children, this discussion guide is designed to help communities participating in study circle programs to bring people from all segments of the neighborhood together to share different views and experiences, thereby building stronger…

Describes alternative form of evaluation that enables the teacher to assign a grade to students problem-solving skills as they participate in a discussion to solve a problem. Discusses room arrangement, the role of the audience, grading, and secondary benefits of the method. (MDH)

Instructor skills which are useful in facilitating classroom discussion are described. Suggestions are made for organizing the group (optimal size being 5 to 7 students), establishing agenda and procedures, and identifying responsibilities. Specific techniques are given for managing the flow of ideas, encouraging students to freely exchange ideas…

A study circle is a group of diverse members of a community who meet with a facilitator to find common ground for solutions and actions. The Study Circles Resource Center proposes a program of Community-Wide Study Circles to talk about student success and develop ideas for action in the community and schools. This brochure provides a rational for…

Four exercises to help students get ready for class activities are presented. The exercises are designed to develop skills in listening and following directions, awareness and retention, giving directions, and office problem solving. The exercises involve paper and pencil, newspaper articles, and office problem situations. (MF)

David Schwartz's classic book "How Much Is a Million?" can be the catalyst for sparking many interesting mathematical investigations. This article describes five episodes in which children in grades 2-5 all heard this familiar story read aloud to them. At each grade level, they were encouraged to think of their own way to explore the concept of…

Pedagogy and assessment are critical aspects of classroom teaching at all educational levels. Although training in these areas is often a primary focus of university programs preparing pre-service teachers, it is not necessarily part of the training for university faculty. Using survey methodology, this descriptive study investigated the…

This study examined the effects of a cross-age training program on the interpersonal conceptions of the students serving as trainers. A total of 24 sixth graders participated in the study, 12 in the training group and 12 in the control group which received no training. The training group met twice a week, once to lead dilemma discussion groups…