Brainstorming
What is it? Brainstorming is a method used to generate multiple answers or ideas. It encourages creativity and divergent thinking which can be used to solve problems or answer questions. It was popularised by Alex […]
Six thinking hats
What is it? The thinking hats activity originates from Edward De Bono’s (1985) Six Thinking Hats book about the process of lateral and creative thinking. It is largely associated with Business Management, but can be […]
Pinwheel discussions
What is it? Pinwheel discussions are often used to consider and discuss a topic from different perspectives and points of view. They can be used when there is an particular topic or controversial question to […]
Tests and polls
What is it? Tests, sometimes known as Quizzes, are usually no-stakes or low stakes opportunities for learning (i.e. students work with knowledge as well as recalling what they already know) which can take place within […]
Confidence to contribute
What is it? Some students tend to contribute disproportionately to discussions while others hardly ever speak. This guide offers some alternative ways to even out student participation in a group discussion. Why do it? Hearing […]
Jigsaw activity
What is it? Each student within a ‘home group’ focuses on a separate segment of a given concept or unit of learning. They convene into temporary ‘expert groups’ to develop their ideas before returning to […]
Concentric circles
What is it? A discussion prompt is given. Equal numbers of students in two concentric circles rotate every two minutes so they have the chance to meet and talk with everyone in the circle. Why […]
Concept maps
Students visually represent a concept in terms of its attributes and their connections, using pen and paper, software, or (in groups) post-its and string. Concept maps have similarities with some of the physical structures that […]
Minute paper
The minute paper, usually associated with physics professor Charles Schwartz, is a simple assessment form which elicits students’ knowledge about a topic or concept, or the contents of a lecture. It fosters deeper learning because […]