Having large groups discussions has several benefits for both lecturers and students. It requires greater involvement from the students than a typical lecture would need. It offers a low-pressure setting for evaluating learner knowledge and exemplifies the value of cooperation and shared knowledge building. Clear instructions are the first step in a successful large group discussion. This should include strategies to start conversation, encourages task understanding, and gives enough time for summary and review.

Start by clearly defining the activity, such as how much time will be allotted for discussion and summarizing. Leaving enough time for summarizing at the end of a large group discussion is important. Before your session ends, make sure you have gone over your main points.

Bernheim, B. D., buchmann, N., Freitas-Groff, Z., & Otero, S. (2020). The Effects of Large Group Meetings on the Spread of COVID-19: The Case of Trump Rallies. SSRN Electronic Journal. https://doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.3722299