Determining the Problem for Deliberation
If at all possible, use the consensus model for determining the problem for deliberation. Doing so allows you to establish an invitational communication in a very authentic, meaningful fashion. Often, reaching consensus will take a full class period—perhaps more. Let your students know that you have a time limit and what that time limit is, and have reasonable alternatives for topic selection should you fail to reach consensus in the specified amount of time.
- The consensus approach makes the best sense for smaller lower-division classes (30 or fewer) or small to midsized (50 or fewer) upper-division classes within the major. Reaching consensus may take a class period or two, but the time spent is likely to be significant to the success of the project.
- The consensus approach is not as effective for midsized and large classes, especially classes that meet general education requirements. Students in these classes may have a harder time reaching consensus, and the time investment may not be worth your while. In these cases, you may select a problem in advance, or create a “menu” or research problems from which students can choose.
Whole-Class Problem Vs. Umbrella Topic
When thinking about determining a project for a deliberation, you’ll want to start with a consideration of a whole-class problem versus an umbrella topic.
Using a whole-class problem works well in smaller classes, and in combination with oral project deliverables that are interactive (for instance, the cooperative debate, fishbowls, roundtable discussions).
- A whole-class problem is a single question or resolution that the entire class is engaged in exploring.
The umbrella topic allows you to pose a broader problem than that of the whole-class problem, one that can be divided into specific subtopics or areas of emphasis. Learning teams can then devote themselves to a more specific exploration of the broader topic, coming together to share information as specialists.
- For midsized and larger classes, you may find that choosing an umbrella topic is more suitable.
The umbrella topic works well with oral project deliverables such as group presentations, panel discussions, jigsaw problem-solving activities, cooperative debates between two learning teams with a common subtopic.
