Large group discussion

Students benefit from being able to explore and unpack an idea, concept, argument or topic as they engage with their peers. Tasks for group discussion should focus on problem solving and critical thinking. This way students share their thoughts and discuss how they came to those conclusions, enabling students to be exposed to a variety of ways of thinking.

Facilitation of the discussion is important to keep students on task and reach the desired outcomes for the discussion. When starting a discussion, include a set of questions to answer or objectives to achieve within the specified time limit. Group size should be kept to between four to seven students – the larger the group, the more time will be needed for discussion.

Large group discussions are

effective for:

best to pair with:

  • Categorising and ordering knowledge
  • Collaboration and cooperation
  • Decision-making
  • Authentic experience
  • Peer learning
  • Reflective thinking or practice
  • Brainstorming
  • Categorising grid
  • Clarification pause
  • Minute papers
  • Jigsaw
  • Socratic questioning

Example 1

The students are given a scenario and need to devise a solution within a clear set of given parameters. The scenarios should focus on real-world examples and get students to use a range of their skills and understanding. If the scenario is designed well, each group devises a unique solution.

Example 2

Educators pose a challenging and complex question to the students and ask them to find a consensus between the group members. They ensure that the students write down their justifications for their positions and why they are taking that position. Each group needs to be able to clearly articulate why they are taking their final position and the pros and cons discussed. In this way, students understand differing views on the same issue.

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