Supporting Discourse in K-12 Classrooms (309-0-20)

Instructors

Brian Reiser

Meeting Info

Annenberg Hall 101: Wed 2:00PM - 4:50PM

Overview of class

Approaches to teaching and learning that focus on student sensemaking and meaningful learning require creating an environment where much of this sensemaking work occurs through talk. Supporting productive discourse is a key element in engaging learners in meaningful work and has become central in attempts in improving education across the K-12 curriculum. This course explores the theory and practice of centering discourse in approaches to learning, focusing on teaching and learning in K-12 classrooms. Work in the course will involve analyzing discourse strategies, reviewing studies of discourse in classrooms, and analyzing video of classroom interactions to see these approaches in action. We will consider examples from elementary, middle school, and high school classrooms, and across multiple disciplines including math, literacy, history, science, and others. We will examine how learners engage in and learn through discourse, and how a teacher or facilitator can support an environment in which students feel welcome and responsible for contributing by sharing their ideas, building on one another's thinking, and working together to further their learning as a community. Students will have the opportunity to apply the theories, tools, and strategies to design or analyze a discourse-rich environment for a context of their choice, or to try out these tools in facilitating discussions with their peers.

Registration Requirements

SESP 200, Understanding Knowledge or equivalent

Preferred: A prior course in Learning Sciences or Teacher Ed