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Ideas to encourage good discussions in tutorials

An extract from an Anonymous student's learning portfolio

I have five suggested criteria for assessing the successful student facilitation of tutorials:

A successful tutorial with good discussion is dynamic, informed, facilitated, engaging and ‘equitable’.

Dynamism can be encouraged by thinking outside the square. It questions participants’ understandings through provocative and controversial perspectives and thus leads to healthy discussion and exchange of ideas.

Tutors can achieve this by thinking laterally (in ideas, activities etc) or even playing devils advocate.

Informed tutorials are those in which students have a critical understanding of the topic and have formulated their own ideas and opinions that they are willing to share (but not impose!). Students should remain informed throughout the tutorial by listening and responding to discussion.

Perhaps a google search/wiki/article briefing could be encouraged before the tut.

Good facilitation means that the tutorial has objectives and purpose through which it is guided. Conversation is also structured around the topic so that the agenda is introduced and concluded upon for everybody’s benefit.

Thorough planning and discussion ‘coaching’ helps facilitation stay on track to reach a ‘goal’ of understanding.

Engaging tutorials are approached in a manner in which everyone wants to be involved. They often employ various communication mediums and/or formats… and they are fun!

Hands on games, role plays, pictures, food etc, can all be used to break up the monotony of the tut.

Equity is important as it ensures that everyone’s views are heard and respected. It promotes reflexivity and enriches the shared learning experience.

Small groups help this, as does openness and general politeness.