Tuesday, February 15, 2005

FOR SENIORS--Socratic Seminar

Today, we participated in the Socratic Seminar. I'd like your reactions and/or questions to today's lessons. For your information, I am also posting the guidelines for Socratic Seminars.

Guidelines for Participants in a Socratic Seminar

  1. Refer to the text when needed during the discussion. A seminar is not a test of memory. You are not "learning a subject"; your goal is to understand the ideas, issues, and values reflected in the text.
  2. It's OK to "pass" when asked to contribute.
  3. Do not participate if you are not prepared. A seminar should not be a bull session.
  4. Do not stay confused; ask for clarification.
  5. Stick to the point currently under discussion; make notes about ideas you want to come back to.
  6. Don't raise hands; take turns speaking.
  7. Listen carefully.
  8. Speak up so that all can hear you.
  9. Talk to each other, not just to the leader or teacher.
  10. Discuss ideas rather than each other's opinions.
  11. You are responsible for the seminar, even if you don't know it or admit it.

No comments: