Suggestion 67. Use an opinion questionnaire as a basis for discussion

IF YOU WANT TO:

• Encourage class discussion

• Discuss points of view other than your own

• Get the discussion started

Having students complete a brief opinion questionnaire and using the results as a basis for discussion.

A faculty member of business administration has found this approach to be particularly effective. "The first seminar session generally begins with a questionnaire asking for opinions on a variety of issues that will be covered in the course. Each week we begin by analyzing the questionnaire results on the relevant topic and talking about the views of political economy revealed by the students' answers," he explains.

This device is very effective in starting discussion and helping students (and the professor) get to know one another's views.

Limitations on Use of Suggestion

  Discipline:  Subjects which involve different points of view
Course Level:  None
 Course Size:  None
        Mode:  None

Copyright 1983 by the Regents of the University of California

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