Description: When a question or case is posed, students discuss in groups of 3-4 for 5+ minutes. It is important that the question or case is difficult enough that group members need to spend considering what they know (from readings, experience, or data) and multiple options could be considered before coming to a conclusion. If there is not enough to discuss, and students are able to come to a conclusion quickly, the discussion will become flat quickly.
Benefits: Discussing concepts in groups allows students time to talk through their thinking, test their ideas with others, and receive feedback and alternative views from group members. Group discussion helps students clarify their understanding and aids in retention of knowledge.
Examples:
