Dialogue vs Debate

Debate is…• competitive or

oppositional• about proving others

wrong• close-minded• having one right answer• about demeaning others

Dialogue vs Debate

Dialogue is…• collaborative• about listening to understand• keeping an open mind• open-ended• exploring different possibilities• about respecting all participants

Introduction to

Socratic Seminar

SocratesPhilosopher (c. 470 BCE–c. 399 BCE)

Socrates was a classical Greek philosopher credited as one of the founders of Western philosophy. Socrates was born circa 470 BC, in Athens, Greece. His "Socratic method," laid the groundwork for Western systems of logic and philosophy. When the political climate of Greece turned, Socrates was sentenced to death by hemlock poisoning in 399 BC. He accepted this judgment rather than fleeing into exile.

Purpose

Socratic seminar is a formal discussion, based on a text, in which participants respond to open-ended questions. Students listen closely to the comments of the other discussants, thinking critically for themselves, expressing their own thoughts, and responding to the thoughts of others. Students work cooperatively, question intelligently and behave civilly. The purpose is to achieve a deeper understanding of the values, ideas, and issues contained in a text.

LayoutParticipants will be divided into two groups. One half of the class will comprise the inner circle while the other half will comprise the outer circle.

Inner circle: discusses the text

Outer circle: makes observations and evaluates the discussion and participants

Hot Seat: a seat is reserved for members of the outer circle who want to jump to make a contribution

At the end of the conversation, the outer circle shares their observations. The groups then switch to allow the outside group a chance to discuss.

Discussion Norms

• Listen carefully• Address one another respectfully• Address comments to the group not individuals• Consider all viewpoints and ideas• Refer to the text (cite evidence)• Use sensitivity to take turns and not interrupt

others• Don’t stay confused; ask for clarification when

necessary• Speak up so that all can hear you• Be courageous in presenting your own thoughts

and reasoning, but be flexible and willing to change your mind when presented with compelling evidence from alternate viewpoints

Asking Open-ended Questions

Try to avoid yes/no questions because they're usually a dead end.

In general, start questions with "how," "what," "where," "why" or "when."

Asking Open-ended Questions

Closed-ended Question:Do we need light?

Open-ended Questions:Why is it important to have light?Where does light come from?How does light help people?Where is light used?What would happen if there were no light?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oG64GWpE9Jo