Small Groups & Effective Discussions Scott Grogan Shawn Alderman Faculty Development Fellows

Objectives Reviewed levels of cognitive learning Discussed strengths and weakness of leading discussions Identified methods for leading small group discussions Practiced leading small group discussions

Take Home Points Prior planning prevents … Keep it Safe Manage personalities

Levels of Learning Knowledge Comprehension Application Analysis Synthesis Evaluation Unconsciously Unaware Consciously Unaware Consciously Aware Unconsciously Aware

________________ Strengths ________________ Weakness ________________ Opportunities ________________ Threats Activity One LearnerLearner EducatorEducator

Strengths of Discussions Encourages active participation Provides immediate feedback Develops higher order cognitive skills Develops interests and values Changes attitudes

Weaknesses of Discussions May be difficult to get participation Time consuming Not ideal for large amounts of info Requires more forethought/planning

Opportunities Evaluate skill in speech & discussion Evaluate problem solving skills Stimulates thought, reflection, & understanding Promotes safety

Threats Instructor has less control Poor preparation The over-participator The under participator

When are small groups effective? Size Planned Unplanned

Steps in Leading Effective Group Discussions 1.Prepare for the discussion 2.Getting the discussion started 3.Managing the group process 4.Concluding a discussion

Prepare for the Discussion Needs assessment Set objectives Determine –Material –Discussion format –Group size –Setting

Getting Started Introduce the topic State the objectives Create the agenda Establish ground rules

Creating Safety Model Mutual Respect Not essential to control every input Intervene when necessary

Managing the Group Process Exhibit enthusiasm Encourage active participation Keep group on track Summarize key ideas periodically Instructor's primary role is facilitator

Sustaining the Discussion Ask the right questions… Convergent Divergent Open Probing

Dynamics of Questioning Timing of questions Maintain eye contact Controlling excessive talkers Solicit responses from the non ‑ talkers

Nonproductive Behaviors The Rescuer (Hector) the projector The Apologizer The Space cadet The Withdrawer The Monopolizer

Assessing the Learner Level of knowledge Ability to apply knowledge Problem solving ability Attitudes

Concluding a Discussion Summarize key concepts without introducing new material Provide closure Stimulate further thought

Group Discussion One Pick a discussion leader Pick a card Lead the discussion!

How did it go? What did you see happening? Why? What could be done differently?

Group Discussion Two Pick a new discussion leader Leader picks a new card Lead the discussion!

How did it go? What did you see happening? Why? What was different?

Take Home Points

What next? In what situations will you apply this? How will you succeed in your next discussion?