The goal of a discussion is to allow students to share their opinions and ideas with others. Here are some best practices:

1. Offer a discussion goal. Some groups might struggle when they are given an open-ended prompt. Try adding a discussion goal. They can:

   • Agree: Decide on a consensus, on a position they all agree to

   • Brainstorm: Exhaust all possible ideas, and document them

   • KWL: Organize their group’s collective knowledge into things they Know, things they Want to know about, and things they have Learned (KWL)

2. Set discussion norms. Provide specifications such as time (how long can we engage in the discussion?), roles (who can speak, who takes down notes?), and mechanics (how do we respond to each other?). Norms allow all learners to participate in discussions.

3. Use discussion stems. When students are not adept in sharing ideas or opinions, try providing stems they can use to start their contributions. Doing this helps shy students or those who are not confident in expressing their thoughts verbally. Some examples:

   • I used to think ____, but now I think….

   • Have you considered _____?

   • What we both agree on is ________

   • As a _______, I think that _______.

   • Let me explain why I see that differently….

   • What makes you say that?

Posting discussions in Edmodo is simple, simply make a new Post and type your question prompt in the text box. Students can add comments to the post, and can reply to each others’ comments.