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.

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:

  • Primary school participants (aged 10-12)
  • Secondary school participants (aged 13-17)

    • 1-2 facilitator(s) will be assigned to each group to monitor each discussion.