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SECTIONS & LABS |
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“Just because you say it, doesn’t mean they learned it.” — Overheard at a |
Discussion sections and labs provide opportunities for collaboration and active learning that do not always take place in a traditional lecture context. The role of section or lab is not just to clear up any confusion remaining after the course material has been presented in lecture, but also to provide students with the opportunity to manipulate and apply course content. GSIs often express concerns about the challenge of balancing discussion against “covering the material.” In finding the right balance, remember that time spent applying the facts, and working through questions and problems together, may be a more effective use of time than rehashing the lecture or imparting new information. Take some time to think about classroom discussions in which you have participated. What made the discussions successful or unsuccessful?
This section contains a wide range of tips and resources on maximizing student learning in your section or lab. You might also find relevant advice in other sections, such as Getting Started, Grading, Student Writing, Career Building, Dealing with Academic Dishonesty, and the Teaching Effectiveness Award Essays, written by former GSIs.
