Class Discussion Groups

 

We have discussion groups in every class that I have had in one form or another.  My current class is no different.  I don't mind the discussion groups at all.  Sometimes they are actually very helpful and educational. The major problem for me is trying to keep up with the conversation while there are so many other things we have to do for the week. Most of the time in these groups, we have to make an initial post on the topic and then respond to at least two other posts from classmates.  That is easy enough but often I will do that and then leave it alone because I've done the required work for it.  I don't necessarily like that I do that, but when I've got several papers to work on, it happens.

I try to go in each time I log on to do homework and respond to someone's post or reply to responds on my post in an effort to have some kind of flowing conversation. I also will respond to someone's post that has not been replied to yet.  I think that it is important that everyone in class feels heard.  Even if I respond with something brief like "I agree" and then say back to them what they have said. At least they know that someone took the time to listen to their opinion.  Being heard is important at any age.

I do wish, though, that the instructors would actually divide us up into smaller groups for discussion.  When you are in a class with twenty plus people, trying to keep up with what everyone is saying just ain't going to happen!  I think that if we had smaller groups, then it would be easier to keep up with the conversation. But that's just me.  Still, overall, I have enjoyed the groups and often surprise myself with my own insights.  Just shows that sometimes I'm actually picking up on things we have learned and that is good.  Well, time to go contribute to this week's discussions! 

That is all.