Simple but Effective: Rediscovering the Class Discussion

Abstract

This paper considers a simple yet effective approach to teaching business: the student-led class discussion. Student-led discussions force and encourage students to perform several tasks that are important in learning and acquiring business skills. Students learn to integrate and apply course topic material in an interesting fashion, to be more accountable for classroom material, and how to think on their feet when discussions fall flat or when material becomes confusing or unclear. Assignments are graded according to how well students integrate chapter material, article relevancy, and leadership effectiveness. As a result of this process, students develop self-confidence in their communication abilities.