Classroom Discussions

Internet Links for Teachers

Classroom Discussions

INTERNET ARTICLES

Controversial Issues in the Classroom. ERIC Digest. Defines controversial discussions and gives key
Conflict De-Escalation - Arizona State University suggestions for when discussion ground rules fail and conflict emerges between students.
Dealing with Morally Controversial Issues in the Classroom - Teacher Rob Kunzman suggests six stances that teacher may take when controversial topics arise in the classroom.
Dialogue Guidelines - Arizona State University offers discussion guidelines.
Discussion Ground Rules - Arizona State University gives ground rules for classroom discussions.
Encouraging Students in a Racially Diverse Classroom - Produced by the Derek Bok Center for Teaching and Learning and the Office of Race Relations and Minority Affairs at Harvard University. Includes managing "hot moments" in the classroom.

JOURNAL ARTICLES

Green, Timothy D. "Responding and Sharing: Techniques for Energizing Classroom Discussions." Clearing House Jul/Aug 2000 : 331-34 FirstSearch (ERIC). "Describes seven techniques that can be used as part of classroom discussions (at elementary, secondary, and university levels in a variety of subjects) to get students actively involved in discussing their ideas with fellow students."
Ediger, Marlow. "A Study of Values." Clearing House Sep 1995:56-58. FirstSearch (ERIC). "Presents brief descriptions of five current controversial issues (with suggested questions) for classroom discussion to provide the basis for values clarification in the classroom."
Kardia, Diana et.al. "Discussing the Unfathomable." Change 34 Jan/Feb 2002: 18-22 FirstSearch (ERIC).
Townsend, Jane S. "Silent Voices: What Happens to Quiet Students During Classroom Discussions?" English Journal Feb 1998: 72-80 FirstSearch (ERIC). Offers a case study of three 11th-grade students who viewed tapes of their class discussions and commented on their own involvement. Argues that students are silent for wide-ranging reasons; that students who are quiet may be learning; and that teachers should consider multiple means to spur students' thinking. Lists ways to help students speak out."