DISCUSSION-BASED LEARNING (DbL)

Inspired by the Harkness method (adapted by Phillips Exeter Academy as a mode of learning), these discussion-based learning sessions are not guided toward a set of model answers, but rather, they provide participants opportunities to develop and voice out their unique views freely towards a topic they are interested in through discussing them with like-minded peers. We believe that some knowledge is best learnt alone by quiet study, some by exposure to real-life experience, and some by discussing with peers, family and professionals. To speak impromptu in a discussion is a catalyst of articulation and thought. Along with other education techniques, we emphasize discussion-based learning for open-ended issues and critical concepts. We encourage students to learn how to build on others' ideas in order to think and express themselves, instead of simply reciting knowledge.

WHAT IS DISCUSSION-BASED LEARNING

BENEFITS FOR PARTICIPANTS

  • Cultivate the thirsts for knowledge through experiencing the joy of learning

  • Become more aware of problems that the society is facing today

  • Become confident in expressing their own views on controversial issues

  • Experience the benefits of collaborative learning

  • Learn to analyze sources and issues from multiple perspectives

  • With the support of the Agent of Change, all participants will have the chance to watch videos using VR equipment from Oculus powered by Facebook

RESPONSIBILITIES OF PARTICIPANTS

  • Familiarize with the rules and guidelines for the Discussion-based Learning sessions

  • Give thoughts to guiding questions and draw mind maps fo rthe given subtopic before each session

  • Actively take notes of their thoughts on the issue before, during, and after the discussion sessions

  • Fully engage in mini-games and discussions

GROUPINGS

Participants are grouped into groups of 6-8 according to their preference for discussion topic and age groups:

  • Junior groups (aged 10-13)

  • Senior groups (aged 16-21)

  • 1-2 facilitator(s) will be assigned to each group to monitor each discussion. Senior groups will be introduced to Design Thinking by their facilitators.