1. Discuss and explain discussion method.
Objectives:
2. Construct simple mathematical activities that can apply this method.
3. Appreciate teaching Mathematics using discussion method.
TIME TESTED INSTRUCTIONAL PROCEDURE – DISCUSSION METHOD
Gear Up
Think one Math topic where you think the discussion method in teaching is being applied.
Share your answer.
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Analyze and Explore
DISCUSSION METHOD
The discussion method of teaching is a group activity involving the teacher and the student
to define the problem and seek its solution. Discussion method is also described as a constructive
process involving listening, thinking, as well as the speaking ability of the student.
Preparation and conduct of discussion method
1. Orientation
• Provide the discussion topic.
• Clearly describe the question.
• Explain how students have to prepare for the discussion
• Explain how the discussion will be conducted
• Encouraged the students to think
2. Engagement
• Develop an environment
• Present a clear question to focus the discussion
• Start by asking students to define the terms, if necessary, help the students
• Wait for each student to answer the question
• Refocus discussion
• Keep a progressive record
• Close discussion by summarizing or evaluating
3. Debrief
• Allow time for students to make their notes
• Facilitate student reflection on what they learned.
PRINCIPLES
The objective should be clearly defined and understood by all participants.
• The teachers should prepare carefully as a facilitator to guide.
• Question outline should be prepared carefully
• The members of the group should come prepared; have a basic knowledge about the topic
to be discussed.
• The leader needs to guide and coordinate the proceedings so that the discussion should be
kept to the point.
• Record the main points of discussion.
• Each one in the group should feel free to participate and a shy person should be encouraged
to contribute
• The discussion should be properly ended with a report.
Example
Teachers divide the class into groups of students and assign tasks to discuss a problem, or
work together to find ways to solve a math problem. After a certain period, the groups send
their representatives to present their ideas.
ADVANTAGES
• Emphasis on learning instead of learning
• Participation by everybody
• Fostering democratic way of thinking
• Training in self-expression
• Made interest
DISADVANTAGES
• More time and effort
• May not be ended with a solution
• A teacher may not be able to guide and provide true leadership
• The success of the discussion is based on good preparation
• It may create emotional stress
• Not effective in describing procedures
• Few students may dominate in discussion
FORMS
1. Role Play
An educational technique in which people spontaneously act out problems of human relations and
analyze the enactment with the help of other role players and observers.
2. Participatory Learning Method
Engages students as active participants in the full life cycle of homework, project, and examinations
3. Formal Group Discussion
Formal group discussions are held by a small group as well as the large group.
4. Panel Discussion
It is the discussion in which 4 – 8 persons who are qualified to talk about the topic, sit, and discussing
a given problem.
5. Seminar
A seminar is a discussion based on information presented by experts under the guidance of an
eminent resource person for the benefit of group members.
6. Symposium
It is a technique that serves as an excellent device for informing an audience discussion. the
procedure is like a straight lecture form.
Keep Those Nerves Working
I. Explain and Answer
1. Choose one Math topic in Grade 7, then apply one form of discussion method whether role-play,
participatory, formal, panel, or seminar form.
2. How important in this method is the ability of a teacher to communicate effectively?
3. Do you think this method is effective in teaching mathematics? Explain your answer.
