So, you’ve heard of Socratic Seminars and are considering introducing them into your classroom? Fantastic choice! Like introducing task cards, embracing the Socratic method can be transformative. But just as with any new teaching technique, there are both delightful discoveries and potential pitfalls to watch out for.
Why Socratic Seminars?
Socratic Seminars encourage critical thinking and allow students to dive deep into psychological topics, discussions, and debates. The format promotes student-led discussions where they learn not only from the material but also from one another.
Step-by-Step Guide: Setting up a Socratic Seminar with Inside-Outside Circles
SETTING UP A SOCRATIC SEMINAR WITH INSIDE-OUTSIDE CIRCLES
Step 1: Preparation
- Choose a topic and provide resources/readings in advance.
- Have students prepare questions using the provided template.
Step 2: Arrangement
- Set up two circles: an inner circle and an outer circle. The inner circle participates in the discussion, while the outer circle observes and takes notes.
Step 3: Beginning the Seminar
- Start with an open-ended question.
- Allow students in the inner circle to discuss, ensuring they use the discussion guidelines.
Step 4: Role of the Outer Circle
- Students in the outer circle are silent observers.
- They should take notes on the discussion, noting strong arguments, areas of consensus, disagreements, and any questions that arise.
Step 5: Switching Roles
- Halfway through, allow the circles to switch roles. The outer circle now becomes the inner circle and vice versa.
Step 6: Concluding the Discussion
- End the discussion by summarizing key points.
- Allow for a few minutes of reflection where students can write down their thoughts and feedback using the feedback form.
Step 7: Post-Seminar Reflection
- Review feedback forms to understand what went well and areas of improvement.
- Address feedback in the next session and make necessary adjustments.
Common Pitfalls and How to Sidestep Them
- Lack of Preparation: Going in unprepared can lead to a chaotic classroom. Avoid this by providing students with the topic and resources well in advance.
- Dominating the Discussion: Ensure every student gets an opportunity to speak. Maybe use a speaking token system where each student must contribute before a second round of discussions can begin.
- Going Off-Topic: It’s easy to drift when topics are intriguing. Set clear objectives for the session and gently steer discussions back if they wander too far. Having said that, if the discussion is critically-focused and rich, then I don’t mind students wandering into side topics.
Skills That Need Nurturing
-
Active Listening: This takes time. Encourage students to really listen to one another, not just wait for their turn to speak.
-
Respectful Disagreement: Teach students the art of disagreeing with ideas, not individuals. This is foundational in psychology and life!
-
Question Formulation: The essence of the Socratic method lies in probing questions. Have brainstorming sessions where students can draft and refine their questions.
Patience is Key
Remember, the first session might not be smooth sailing, and that’s OK! It’s a learning curve for both you and the students. The beauty of the Socratic Seminar comes out over time, as students develop confidence, depth in understanding, and respect for diverse viewpoints.
↓↓ Get FREE resources here ↓↓
Enter your email below to receive the following resources for free:
- a handout with suggested discussion guidelines
- a template for students to prepare questions in advance
- a feedback form for reflection
I do hope you’ll give Socratic seminars a try in your classroom. It is hands-down one of my students’ favourite activities and one of the very few they actually request.
If you need further support, just reach out. We’ve got this!
Take care,
