Almasi's New Discussion

As teacher education students, I feel like we utilize the technique of classroom discussion quite a bit more than most fields. In fact, since we first set foot in any TE classroom, it seems that the importance of discussion, specifically viewed as a tool for learning through classroom community building, has been consistently frequently drilled into our minds. However, besides observing our professors, I cannot remember ever learning about how to establish or lead effective classroom discussion. As a result, Janet F. Almasi’s article, “A New View of Discussion,” quickly caught my interest.

Almasi states that discussion is often viewed as something that is static usually led by a small group or single person in order to stimulate thought-provoking conversation. In fact, it seems that the success of a discussion is often viewed in terms of the amount of conversation. Almasi suggests that discussion can be much more powerful, especially in literacy. As people express their ideas and views towards a certain literary piece, the others who are actively engaged will absorb those new ideas and make connections to their own. As a result, an effective discussion may leave those involved thinking about their ideas and challenging others well after the actual conversation has stopped.

According to Almasi, effective discussion is nearly always student-led. Instead of teachers asking questions and searching for specific answers, students should discuss their own interpretations in their own ways in order to avoid recitation. In addition, by assigning student responsibilities and roles in discussion will help foster a sense of responsibility and ownership over the discussion. As seen in Almasi studies, effective discussion can not only lead to more powerful learning situations, but can also help develop confidence one’s inter and intrapersonal intelligences.