Responding to Student Contributions in Discussion-Based Learning Environments

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Keywords:

discussion; responding; active learning; student engagement; inclusive teaching

Abstract

To facilitate effective classroom discussions, college teachers must develop skills in questioning, listening, and responding. Designing questions that stimulate and encourage critical thinking is essential. Likewise, effective instructors actively listen and are present during interactions with their students. Equally important is how an instructor chooses to respond to student contributions. However, the skill of responding has largely been neglected in previous scholarship. This article identifies and describes 18 research-based techniques that college teachers can utilize in responding to student contributions in discussion-based learning environments.

 

 

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Author Biography

  • Christopher E. Garrett, Brigham Young University

    Christopher E. Garrett serves as Assistant Director of Leadership and Faculty Development in the Faculty Center at Brigham Young University (Provo, Utah, USA).  Prior to BYU, he was a tenured Professor of Education and the Director of the Center for Teaching and Learning Excellence at Nevada State University (Henderson, Nevada, USA).  Dr. Garrett has nearly two decades of experience leading faculty development programs and teaching college students.  

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Published

2026-05-26

Data Availability Statement

I did not analyze or generate any datasets because my work primarily proceeds within a theoretical approach.

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How to Cite

Responding to Student Contributions in Discussion-Based Learning Environments. (2026). Journal on Excellence in College Teaching. https://celt.miamioh.edu/index.php/JECT/article/view/1176