In
activity ten I have learnt that a discussion is more than an ordinary
conversation. It is where people talk about a serious topic with the intention
of improving their knowledge, understanding or judgment. In order to
improve on discussion the participants must talk to others truthfully, listen
to others with an open mind, and respond to what others say with respect.
The
activity has helped me to see that my role in a discussion should not be the
one taking over the discussion but to listen more than I speak and allowing the
learners to talk and expand on their ideas. Also to encourage speakers to look
at the person they are talking to and allowing them to feel confident about the
points they are addressing and to keep them focus on the learning task. If they
need any clarification my role is to explain things they do not know and if
possible demonstrate things for them. My
role also is to guide their learning by asking questions to help enhance interactive
discussion at all times.
Knowing
these things that contribute to discussions help me to assess whether a genuine
discussion has taken place by asking the following questions:
- Did the learners
talk to one another?
- Did they listen
to each other?
- Have they
responded to what others said?
- Have they
considered different viewpoints?
- Have they shown development of knowledge, understanding or judgment
This activity has helped me improved on my discussion strategies and it has enhanced my teaching learning process. As the quote say, "A philosopher who is not taking part in discussions is
like a boxer who never goes into the ring."
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