This session is design show teachers the importance of students conversing in multiple formats throughout all lessons. Skills, strategies, and habits will be explained towards a goal of a discussion culture in the classroom rather than occasional isolated lessons featuring student discussion. Educational technology tools such as Padlet, Online Discussions, and Back-Channel Chats also explained in enhancing these activities. Aside from being part of the state standards and valuable for life in the world, speaking and listening skills improve learning. Movement and talking stimulates their thinking and keeps them engaged. The key is that you are constantly finding ways to ensure that discussions are genuine. Constant tweaks and novelties are key. Once they get used to a drill or seating arrangement, they get comfortable which leads to lethargy. Building a discussion culture in your classroom will be daunting and uncomfortable at first; but once you do, you will never go back.
