Learning Through Discussion and Disagreement

Learning Through Discussion and Disagreement provides strategies for encouraging discussion and debate in the classroom.

Overview

Most teachers know that discussions can catalyze student understanding but discussions don’t always happen the way we hope they would. Why are classroom discussions often so challenging? What can teachers do to improve them? What do we know about why they matter?

Based upon the research of HGSE Professor Catherine Snow, one of the world’s leading experts on language and literacy, Learning Through Discussion and Disagreement begins by revealing what classroom discussion is and isn’t and defining what makes a classroom discussion successful. Professor Snow then provides research evidence for the value of classroom discussion and explains why it can be so effective—and why there is too little of it in most classrooms. Finally, participants will explore strategies for getting started and make plans to engage their students in the classroom.

Program Details

This two-week online workshop includes a mix of self-paced learning, group discussion, and job-embedded application. Activities include:

• Video lectures from Professor Catherine Snow
• Research summaries and assigned readings
• Self-assessment and reflection prompts
• Facilitated cohort discussions
• Job-embedded practice where you will apply the concepts and techniques learned

A core part of the HGSE experience is cohort learning, and this curriculum is designed to create a community of practice for participants to learn with and from each other.

This online workshop is an asynchronous learning experience with no live components and is designed to be self-paced. All materials are provided at the start of the program and can be completed at times that best fit a participant’s schedule within the two-week program period. Participants should plan to devote a total of 10 hours of work over the two weeks. Participants who complete all individual assessments and contribute to group discussions prior to the end of the course period will receive a certificate indicating completion of ten clock hours of instruction.

Objectives

• Understand the research about classroom discussion and debate
• Understand the role of classroom discussion in building robust understanding, while learning why it can be so challenging
• Apply new strategies to improve and enhance classroom discussion and debate

Who Should Participate

• K-12 Teachers
• Instructional coaches

English Language Proficiency Requirements

English language proficiency is a requirement for application to and successful participation in this online course. All participants are expected to have fluency in English, including a basic knowledge of education terminology, in order to effectively engage with the content, complete assignments, and interact with other members of the learning community.

Fees & Policies

Individual Rates: $149 per person
Group Rates: 10+ people: 25% off final invoice

Tuition includes all instructional materials required for participation in the program.

Full tuition is due by the indicated payment deadline, please refer to the individual program’s community and application page for payment deadlines. While a purchase order confirms enrollment, full payment is still required by the final payment deadline. Please note that failure to pay by the payment deadline will result in your withdrawal from the program.

Please click here for more information on payment, refund, and withdrawal policies.

The Harvard Graduate School of Education reserves the right to change faculty or cancel programs at its discretion. The school is not responsible for any planning expenses incurred.