Attend any discussion at NSU and analyze it in terms of the TSSFFAP “good discussion” suggestions. To what extent did the discussion reflect the TSSFFAP “Keys to a Good Discusssion” standards? What kind of things did the teacher do to make sure that students paid attention, enjoyed the discussion, and learned something from it? What did you think went particularly well? What would you have done differently?
I have a discussion class this semester, my first one that promotes itself as discussion, although I’d say more guided response I take Judicial Politics with Dr. Blanchard, a fascinating class, and definitely the class I have the most opportunity to express my ideas on the material. Our discussions mostly center on court cases and specific details. When we start trying to climb into the heads of the Justices and what they think, is when the real fun begins. Dr. Blanchard sets a foundation with 15 minutes of lecture then asks a series of questions the class is welcome to attempt to answer. Throw in the occasional 5 minute explanation/clarification of a student’s point, secondary prompt, and we’re off again. We have great discussions ON topic, one day I don’t want to interpret facts in a case. I just want to projectile vomit my opinions (loosely based on facts) all over everyone. It’s so frustrating to me to have soooo much to say, but never have the right platform or audience…you lead discussions too well Dr. Blanchard, curse you.
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