ACADEMIC DISCUSSION

Dr. Reli Handayani, M.Pd

 WHAT IS AC ADEMIC DISCUSSION?

• An academic discussion is an organized "conversation" about a

specific topic that all the participants have been studying
• An academic discussion is conversations which requires the students
to work together to co-construct knowledge and negotiate meaning
to get deep understanding about a topic. It also allow diverse
perspectives that incourage students high engagement and
participation.
 WHAT ARE THE PURPOSES OF
AC ADEMIC DISCUSSION?

1. To develop students idea on a certain topic through critical

thinking
2. To improve students’ language skills and self confidence in speaking
3. To enable student understand a topic deeper through different
perspectives exchange
4. To enable students expand and clarify knowledge from people’s
interpretation
5. To help students make a particular decision or form a conclusion
 HOW TO LEAD A DISCUSSION?

1. Introducing yourself and stating the purpose of the discussion

2. Asking questions to stimulate the discussion
3. Ensuring no one dominates the discussion by inviting and encouraging contributions
from all students
4. Arranging only one member of the group speaks at a time and every one has an
equal chance to speak
5. Controlling the discussion remains relevant and doesn't drift off topic
6. Rephrasing a speaker's point
7. Summarising the discussion
 WHAT SHOULD WE DO BEFORE AC ADEMIC DISCUSSION?

1. Read carefully the assigned topic and material (readings)

2. Observe other students on how they participate about how they give opinions, how they agree or politely
disagree, how they ask for clarification or ask questions, and how they make critical comments. Also
observe how long each speaker speaks for, whether anyone dominates the discussion, and what strategies
speakers use to ensure everyone contributes.
3. Practice discussing materials outside class. with another student or in a small group. Ask them about the
material, their opinions, and respond to them using common expression.
4. Make notes for discussion in terms of :
• points which you agree or disagree
• examples so you can react to the topic
• Ideas that you do not understand so you can formulate questions
 WHAT SHOULD WE DO DURING AC ADEMIC DISCUSSION?

1. Sit close to the front of the class so it will be easier to ask a question or make a comment.
2. Speak something early in the discussion, do not wait and let others ask your question or make the comment you
intended to make.
3. Listen to what the other speakers are saying during a discussion and try to identify the main ideas.
• Evaluate what is being said, try to relate it to what you have already learnt in your lectures and readings.
• Listen with an open mind and be receptive to new ideas and points of view.You may have your own opinion, but
the opinions of others should be respected and listened to.
• Test your understanding by paraphrasing what other speakers say.
4. Get involved in class discussion once
• Someone asks a question you can answer.
• You can comment on what has already been said. Make comments brief and to the point. Organize your
comments by relating it to what has already been said.
• You can give information (example) to clarify the topic or correct an information.Yet, you have to avoid getting
involved in arguments with individual class members, go to the group directly
5. Jot down popping up ideas and say it when you get a chance to speak.
 WHAT ARE POINTS TO BE CONSIDERED TO HAVE
EFFECTIVE AC ADEMIC DISCUSSION?

1. Prepare for the discussion by reading, thinking, and making notes of important
points
2. Do not just read your notes (notes are used to remember)
3. Pay attention to what other people say and ask them (politely) to explain more if
you miss the points
4. Explain your ideas clearly and concisely through reasons and examples
5. Remain calm and polite in expressing disagreement