Teaching students effective discussion strategies in an introductory statistics course

There is evidence that cooperative learning and discussion of concepts aids students understanding. The ability to verbalise and communicate information effectively in a group situation is also a highly desirable generic skill for graduates entering the workplace. Despite this, traditionally, student discussion skills have been under-utilised in the learning of statistics. In response to this principles of Student Centred Discussion (Wright & Shoop, 2003) were incorporated into an introductory statistics course to explicitly train students in discussion skills. Students practiced these skills in small discussion groups addressing statistical questions during the semester. Student feedback on perceived benefits of the discussion process included greater levels of support from peers, enhanced understanding and clarification of ideas, access to different points of view, an improved willingness to contribute and validation of their progress. In addition, students reflected on their use of discussion skills and reported a greater awareness of skills required for effective discussions.