Orchestrating Whole Classroom Discussion
Learn strategies for leading rich, productive classroom discussions. Prepare effectively for engaging dialogues.
Learn strategies for leading rich, productive classroom discussions. Prepare effectively for engaging dialogues.
This course focuses on developing strategies for orchestrating rich and productive whole-class discussions in educational settings. It is designed for teachers, aspiring teachers, and anyone interested in leading effective classroom dialogues. The curriculum covers key aspects of discussion preparation, including setting goals, establishing norms, selecting texts, and formulating guiding questions. Throughout the course, participants will learn about the importance of classroom discussions, how to prepare both themselves and their students for meaningful dialogues, and techniques for facilitating engaging conversations. The course structure includes video lectures, analysis of classroom discussion examples, and practical assignments where learners create and receive peer feedback on discussion plans. By the end of the course, participants will have developed a comprehensive toolkit for planning and leading successful whole-class discussions that enhance student learning and engagement.
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What you'll learn
Understand what constitutes effective classroom discussion and its importance in education
Learn to set clear goals and establish supportive norms for classroom discussions
Develop skills in selecting appropriate texts and preparing guiding questions for discussions
Gain strategies for preparing students to participate actively in whole-class dialogues
Analyze real classroom discussion examples to identify effective techniques
Create comprehensive discussion plans tailored to specific educational objectives
Skills you'll gain
This course includes:
42 Minutes PreRecorded video
8 assignments
Access on Mobile, Tablet, Desktop
FullTime access
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There are 4 modules in this course
This course provides a comprehensive guide to orchestrating effective whole-classroom discussions. It begins by exploring the fundamental concepts of what constitutes a discussion and why discussions are important in educational settings. Participants will learn how to set clear goals for discussions and establish norms that support these objectives. The course then delves into the crucial aspects of preparing for discussions, including selecting appropriate texts and developing effective questions to guide the conversation. A significant focus is placed on preparing students for meaningful participation in whole-class discussions. Throughout the modules, learners will engage with video examples of classroom discussions, analyze various teaching techniques, and develop their own discussion plans. The course emphasizes practical application, with opportunities for peer review and feedback on discussion strategies. By the end of the course, participants will have a robust set of tools and strategies for leading engaging, productive classroom discussions that enhance student learning and critical thinking skills.
What is discussion? Why discuss?
Module 1 · 4 Hours to complete
Setting Goals and Establishing Norms for Discussion
Module 2 · 3 Hours to complete
Preparing a Text for Discussion
Module 3 · 1 Hours to complete
Preparing Students for Discussion
Module 4 · 2 Hours to complete
Fee Structure
Payment options
Financial Aid
Instructors
Leader in Education and Teacher Development
Pam Grossman is the Dean and George and Diane Weiss Professor of Education at the University of Pennsylvania's Graduate School of Education, a position she has held since January 2015. A distinguished scholar in the field of education, she previously served as the Nomellini-Olivier Professor of Education at Stanford University, where she founded the Center to Support Excellence in Teaching and established the Hollyhock Fellowship for early career teachers in underserved schools. Dr. Grossman's research primarily focuses on teacher preparation and instructional quality, particularly in English Language Arts.Throughout her career, Grossman has been recognized for her contributions to educational research and policy, being elected to the National Academy of Education in 2009. She currently serves on several influential boards, including the Spencer Foundation and the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching. Her course offerings include "Orchestrating Whole Classroom Discussion," where she shares insights on effective teaching practices. Under her leadership, Penn GSE has achieved significant milestones, including a historic ranking as one of the top schools of education in the U.S., reflecting her commitment to enhancing educational systems and fostering teacher excellence.
Expert in Education and Applied Theatre
Lisa M. Barker is an Assistant Professor at the University of Pennsylvania, where she focuses on curriculum development and teacher education. She serves as the Education Director for PLACE: Professional Learning and Community Education at the University of Wisconsin–Madison. Dr. Barker holds a PhD in Curriculum and Teacher Education from Stanford University and an MA in Educational Theatre from New York University. Her extensive teaching experience includes positions at Stanford, SUNY New Paltz, and Towson University.Dr. Barker has a rich background in applied theatre, having performed with various children's theatre companies and founded Stanford's first children's repertory theatre company. She has also held significant roles in educational organizations, such as Director of Education for Adventure Stage Chicago and Manager of the CUNY Creative Arts Team’s Center for Educational Drama, where she helped launch the first MA in Applied Theatre in the U.S. Her course, "Orchestrating Whole Classroom Discussion," reflects her commitment to integrating the principles of improvisational theatre into educational practices, enhancing engagement and learning outcomes for students.
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