This is a discussion activity in which the students team up in groups and discuss a text, taking as their point of departure some roles determined by the teacher in advance. After the discussion, the groups present their conclusions in class, giving everyone an idea of the different texts. The activity is particularly useful for courses involving empirical studies as students often find it difficult to read this type of text material.
The activity sets the framework and prepares the students for reading academic material and enables them to view a text from different perspectives. As a teacher you have the opportunity to facilitate discussions in class based on academically relevant content. At the same time, the activity develops the students’ ability to present arguments based on academic rather than personal perspectives.
Which roles and empirical studies are relevant for your course?
Are your students experienced in building arguments? Or is it necessary to give a brief introduction to good argumentation before the activity begins?
How do you handle a situation where the tone of the group discussions becomes too harsh?