QUESTIONING
Managing Group Discussions
Adapted from work by Frank Lyman

  • After you ask a question allow wait-time "Hold your responses/Don't begin your discussion until everyone has had 15 seconds to think."
  • Build in alternate response modes "Thumbs up, thumbs down."
  • Use transition cues "When you hear the bell, you have 10 seconds to finish talking to your partner/in your group."
  • Provide alternative structures for sharing "This time share your partner's/group's response." "This time try to reach consensus with your partner/group."
  • Give auditory as well as visual directions Written cues to the question provide focus for the discussion.
  • Make it clear when or if you are looking for one answer "There are many possible answers to this question." "We discussed this yesterday...you may want to review your notes."
  • Encourage response from one participant or group to another Do you agree?" "Tell him/her/them why or why not."
  • When possible allow learners to respond first in pairs or small groups "Tell your neighbor." "Buzz in small groups and then we'll discuss it as a large group."
  • Use deadlines "You have 30 seconds."
  • Reduce sharing time Instead of allowing eight participants to answer in the large group, allow three. Never have more than 6 groups report -- find another way to share.
  • Use alternative pairs/groups: "This time share with the person across the table from you rather than the one next to you." "Sit with others with whom you don't normally work today."
  • Be clear on your expectations "Name three ways..." "Brainstorm as many ideas as you can."
  • Record answers on charts or overheads when appropriate Charting helps visual learners, provides focus, lessens the likelihood that duplicate answers will be given, allows participants to build on others' ideas, and provides a reference for later discussion.