Which type of group discussions have the main advantage that students express their ideas and opinions more openly with their peers than when an instructor is present?

In small group discussions, students often feel more at ease and are more likely to share their ideas and opinions openly with their peers. This setup creates a less intimidating environment compared to whole class discussions led by an instructor, where some students might feel self-conscious or hesitant to participate. Smaller groups can foster a sense of camaraderie among participants, encouraging individuals to engage more actively and confidently.

Furthermore, in small groups, the dynamics allow for more personalized interactions, which can lead to deeper exploration of diverse viewpoints and more collaborative learning. Each participant typically has more opportunity to speak and be heard, minimizing the chances of dominant personalities overshadowing others. This aspect of small group discussions promotes a richer exchange of ideas, facilitating a more effective learning experience.

While other discussion types, like whole or tasked discussions, serve valuable purposes in the educational process, they may not provide the same level of comfort and openness among students as small group settings. Monitored discussions may involve oversight that can inhibit the free flow of conversation, making small group discussions particularly effective for encouraging student participation.