Discussion Guidelines

General Guidlines for Discussion
To help you to participate effectively in our class discussions, including questions and discussions during the team presentations, we've included below excerpts from For Your Consideration (from the Center for Teaching & Learning, No. 12). Reprinted with their permission (and with some editorial license taken).

1. 1. Everyone in the class has both a right and an obligation to participate in discussions and, if called upon, should try to respond.
2. 2. Always listen carefully, with an open mind, to the contributions of others.
3. 3. Ask for clarification when you do not understand a point someone has made.
4. 4. If you challenge others' ideas, do so with factual evidence and/or appropriate logic. Questions/comments should never attack nor demean the presenter.
5. 5. If others challenge your ideas, don't think of it as an attack--be willing to change your mind if they demonstrate errors in your logic or use of the facts.
6. 6. Do not introduce irrelevant issues into the discussion.
7. 7. If others have made a point with which you agree, don't bother4r repeating it unless you have something interesting to add.
8. 8. Be efficient in your discourse; make your points and then yield the floor to others (this will be particularly important during your team presentation).
9. 9. Above all, avoid ridicule and try to show respect for the beliefs of others, even if they differ from yours.

Additional advice from your instructor:

1. 1. Come to each class fully prepared for discussion. That means always come to class having read the assignments due that day. Read each thoughtfully. Reflect on what you've read.
2. 2. Wait to be recognized before speaking (could be as simple as a nod from the instructor, or from a classmate who has finished his/her point and acknowledges your turn). Even if you raise your hand first, you may not be chosen right away--others may require some time to pause & reflect before they are ready to speak. Thus, do not take offense; you'll get a chance to express your views.
3. 3. Speak clearly and loudly. Face your classmates whenever you can--try not to speak only to the instructor.
4. 4. If you cannot hear another's contribution, do not just sit and rot in confusion. Politely ask the speaker to repeat.
5. 5. Remember that private conversations, even whispers, are disruptive and irritating to the rest of us and can cause those around you to miss important comments.
6. 6. Harassment will not be tolerated.

Keep in mind that these guidelines are not meant to inhibit a free exchange of ideas, but rather to ensure that everyone is comfortable and knows what to expect.

Kindly review these guidelines from time to time.