A Discussion As The Learning Method

Discussion-based teaching is an instructional approach that prioritizes learner acquisition of knowledge, skills, and attitudes through discourse rather than passive approaches that focus on lecture, reading, or viewing. Discussion is important to learning in all disciplines because it helps students process information rather than simply receive it. Leading a discussion requires skills different from lecturing. The goal of a discussion is to get students to practice thinking about the course materials.  

The statements above led the English  teacher of  SMP  Santo Yosef  to  try to  utilize a discussion  as  her  learning method.   She found the statements while  browsing  in the internet. It  was a good coincidence  since she often wonders  what other strategies she might apply in order to make her students  get involved.  Frankly speaking,  She always  wants  her  students to participate  in her  classes  actively.  In Tuesday  evening, on  September  14, 2021  she informed  students  of  7C  that  she  would  conduct  a discussion. The students should have  reviewed  the previous materials  before they join the  meeting  the day after. 

 On  Wednesday  when all the participants  have already been in the zoom, the teacher  explained the regulation of  the class.  The regulations  were designed to  manage  the discussion so it would run smoothly.  The teacher  also  declared the goal of  using a discussion  as the teaching method.   The class then was divided  into some breakout  rooms   where the students could meet their team and  have a discussion about  the materials they had already chosen by themselves. Each breakout consisted  around  six   to seven  students.  

The teachers  visited each breakout room  giving feedback, reinforcement and  assessments.  Some criteria of assessment had been already  informed to students  so they  wouldn’t  misinterpret   the process of  discussions.  The high score  would be awarded  to students who joined the discussion actively and  responsibly.  Based on the teacher’s observation  most of the students   were enthusiastic  during the discussion. Surprisingly,  some groups even shared screens and used  annotation. The discussion really brought a positive ambience. It was probably because  they  were rarely given  opportunity to  interact  with their classmates.  

Before the class  ended, the students were invited to make  a resume of what  they had learned.  They were also   questioned  about they felt  about  the  method  applied  in their class. Elisabeth, the vice captain  of  Class 7C claimed  that she was  quite  happy  because  she could  collaborate  with her friends preparing for  upcoming PTS.  Vincensa  told   that  she felt more confident   in speaking  English  during  the discussion.  (Mam Vero)