Conversational Moves involve students having a discussion in groups, each with a specific “conversational move” they should employ during the discussion.
Instructions
- Create or provide a set of cards, each containing a different conversational move. Example moves include summarising, connecting ideas, or constructive disagreement.
- The educator should introduce the discussion topic and ensure every student has a conversational move card.
- Divide students into groups. Ask students to keep their move secret from their group members.
- Have the groups start their discussions on the given topic. Emphasise that students should incorporate their assigned conversational move into the discussion naturally.
- Summarise the key takeaways from the activity, highlighting the importance of effective communication and active listening.
Tip
Here are some conversational cards ideas: Discussion strategy: Conversational moves (weebly.com) ; Conversational Moves (nd.edu)
Resources
Conversational move cards that align with the learning objectives
Variations
- Make it a peer-learning feedback exercise: In the lead up to the due date for an assignment, have students bring their drafts into class and swap with a partner. Prepare students to give feedback on each other’s assignment. Each student should be tasked with a small number of “moves” to incorporate into the feedback.
- Make it a self-assessment exercise: In the lead up to the due date for an assignment, have students bring their drafts to class and provide feedback to themselves based on a small number of “moves” they were allocated.
- Make it a summary annotation exercise: Allocate 5-10 minutes at the end of class for students to look back through their notes. Each student is assigned a “move” to use to add some annotations to their notes.
References
The Discussion Book, Brookfield, S. & Preskill, S. 2016.