Present a case to the students and ask them to first write a short answer. They then work in pairs to further clarify their answers. By repeating this step, the students work in increasingly larger groups to reach agreement on the answer.
- Activity goal
- Assess | Exchange knowledge | Recap / Summarize
- When
- In class
- Where
- Offline
- Duration
- < 30 minutes
- Group size
- Small | Medium
- Materials
Zoom, Teams
Step-by-step
Step 1
The students write a 1-sentence summary or response to a statement. Allow a short amount of time for this (1-2 minutes).
Step 2
After the time is up, ask the students to exchange their answers with another student and to work together to write an improved version. Again allow a short amount of time for this (3-5 minutes).
Step 3
Then have each pair find another pair to further clarify their answers. Repeat this step until there are 2 groups that each share their answers in the tutorial. Compare the answers and discuss any missing information or information that needs to be added.
Variation 1
You can also use this teaching method at the end of (part of) your lecture or tutorial to get students to write a conclusion or summary together.
Variation 2
This activity also works online or in a hybrid form. You then create pairs and new groups in breakout rooms in Zoom or Teams. When you work in a hybrid group, it’s handy to have an online facilitator.
Offline
Writing materials (notepaper, pens).
Online
Create pairs and new groups in breakout rooms in Zoom or Teams.
Consider the tools and materials mentioned here as suggestions. In many cases it’s possible to use alternative tools. Please turn to the Learning & Innovation team of your faculty first to see which online and offline tools are available and how to apply them.
