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How to contribute to the discussion of ideas (in
the American Classroom)
At the appropriate time in classroom discussions, don't be
afraid to voice your opinion, even if you differ from your professor or
classmates. Your opinion can and should be based on the text, other
readings, class discussions, library sources, experts in the topic, as
well as your own experience.
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In class, listen carefully to what a professor or
other students are saying
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Mark or make notes of the points you wish to answer
or discuss or question
Remember: a question is as valuable as an opinion in the course
of discussion.
It shows that you are trying to understand others, as well as be
understood!
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Introduce your contribution with a quick summary of
the discussion or point...
"As I understand it...."
Restating the discussion/author's main idea also
shows that you are trying to understand,
and shows where you are in understanding
It is very likely that if you have questions or
information, others will share them
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Be certain it is clear to the class and professor when
you are summarizing and when you are giving your opinion
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Try to keep your comments to the point and don't
hesitate to refer to your notes
Logic is not a speed test...
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In making an argument, begin with examples from the
author or teacher (imitation can be a form of flattery), but generally
use your own examples to show your agreement with their point of view.
This demonstrates independent thinking which should be valued in an
academic setting
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After you have spoken, it is appropriate to ask for
feedback if
Assumptions:
A sense of competition underlies the informality of
American classrooms
Voicing a well-informed opinion is important to your
overall academic evaluation
First listen and try to understand others' opinions
Respect theirs, and insist on being respected for yours
Evaluations are made by professors throughout the
semester;
Final grades are not simply determined by your score on the
final exam.
Focus your contribution on your analysis of the topic,
your reaction, your opinion, and finally your openness to understand
others.
If discussion is based upon readings:
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Study course lectures, articles, texts
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Find the author's thesis and restate it in your own
words
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Decide what your opinion or reaction is to the
author's thesis
Material taken from Gail
M. Zimmerman, Tips
for International Students
Asst. Dean of First-Year Students and Academic Counselor
Dartmouth College
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The Study Guides and Strategies web site was created and is
maintained by Joe
Landsberger,
academic web site developer at the University
of St. Thomas (UST), St. Paul, Minnesota. It is collaboratively
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September 04, 2002 .
Permission is granted to freely copy, adapt, print,
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