I n our frequent discussions, everyone is encouraged to speak from personal experience, and with one s own voice. Everyone s voice is valued and an essential part of the community of learners. Grades are used to emphasize openness to and evidence of learning rather than exclusively as a judgment based on a mastery of information. They are also used to emphasize collaboration and cooperation rather than competition. This course is based primarily on a discussion format.
Discussion is more than conversation, which is generally informal and unstructured.
Discussion is more than dialogue, which is generally arguments evoking counter-arguments until a problem is resolved. Discussion is concerned generally with the development and understanding of knowledge. Discussion is both directed and open-ended. It is directed toward reciprocity, exchange, inquiry, cooperation, collaboration, and ultimately the deeper understanding of one s own and others views, thoughts, feelings, and opinions. It is open-ended by encouraging democratic and full participation, and by being interactive.