class discussions

Discussions offer students a chance to express opinions and exchange information safely within the classroom. Talking about sexuality with students can be challenging because it is a subject that touches on our privacy and our vulnerability.
 

ADVANTAGES OF CLASSROOM DISCUSSION

• Helps build a positive classroom climate.
• Leads to student interest in sexual health.
• Results in students feeling more positive about themselves and the learning environment.

 PROCEDURE

 1. Set up an atmosphere ensuring sensitivity during the activity.

• Ensure ground rules that ensure respectful interactions during discussions are in place.
• Introduce a topic for discussion that centers on material familiar to the students. Defining terms is an important first step.

 2.  Hold the discussion.

• Encourage students to participate in the discussion by asking questions, making suggestions and expressing ideas.
• Probe, prompt and redirect students to enhance the discussion.

 3.  Conclude the discussion.

• Find consensus, a solution, clarification of insights gained, or a summary (preferably one provided by the students).

TIPS

• Introduce facts and refute inaccuracies and myths.
• Be consistent with conventions such as hand raising and listening to the speaker. Some teachers find it helpful to use an object such as a talking stick.
• Maintain students' integrity. Do not pressure students by implying they should know more than they already do. Respect what they do know, and expand upon that knowledge.
• Use "wait time", the pause between asking a question and soliciting a response, to increase participation and improve the quality of student responses.
• Use open-ended questions to encourage higher level thinking.
• Remain conscious of your own values and reactions during the discussion. The teacher must model sensitivity and respect.