How can I stimulate whole-class discussion after collecting student responses?

You have collected student responses to a Learning Catalytics question. What can you do to stimulate discussion about the responses?  

One simple technique is Peer Instruction. Consider the following tips from the video below:

For questions that have correct answers, revisit the concept if a majority of answers are incorrect (e.g., 30% or less are correct ) or move on when over 70% of students know the answer

  • When student answers are spilt (30-70%), have students convince a person sitting next to them, and then repoll the same question. This discussion process helps all students to think about “why” and keeps them engaged. Avoid influencing or giving direct feedback while students discuss their answers. Rather, bring up the remaining misconception after revoting.

Show responses (without correctness) to create debate that legitimizes students’ responses

Learn more about Peer Instruction

Visit this website to learn more about Learning Catalytics features such as a seat map or team-based assessment to faciliate peer instruction in your class.

Lukoff, B. (2015). Catalyzing Interactive Teaching with Learning Catalytics [Lecture video]. Retrieved from Tufts University, Tufts Technology Services. Mediaspace: http://mediaspace.tufts.edu