Seminars

Small group teaching and learning

This short self-paced interactive will help you to learn more about small group teaching during your degree in English Language or Linguistics. You'll learn about what it is, how to prepare, and how to get the most out of small group sessions.

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Small group teaching in language and linuguistics can take the form of seminars or computer-based workshops. These sessions usually involve a lecturer or tutor and about 12-15 students. They are designed to:

Explore lecture topics in more depth in a more conversational setting. Help you fully understand lecture content or practise relevant skills.

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How does small group teaching and learning fit into my degree?

How much time will I spend in small groups?

Preparing for small group learning

You will usually be asked to prepare something specific ahead of a small group session.

Small group learning is about engaging with material, not necessarily getting it "right" the first time.

Your preparation has a purpose.

What to expect during a small group session

Be open

Get feedback

Experiment

Actively listen to your classmates and learn from their contributions. You may disagree with their answers or opinions. Listen, take on board others' points, and develop your own argument in response.

"Correct " answers (if there is one) matter less than the feedback you will get in response to it. Active participation guarantees you feedback ahead of your assignments.

Small group learning is not about getting all the answers right. It's about experimenting, taking risks, and seeking feedback. Be brave and participate.

Ready for a short quiz?

This short quiz will check your understanding of what's involved in small group teaching. Only you can see your answers and feedback while viewing the presentation.

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Question 1/3

What's the point of small group teaching and learning?

To chat with your lecturer or tutor about your general thoughts on the module.

To introduce new material you haven't seen in lectures.

To consolidate and apply new knowledge with direct feedback and support.

That's right!

Small group teaching and learning is for consolidating and applying material introduced in lectures. Small groups provide a more relaxed environment with more of a chance to discuss material with lecturers or tutors, and gain insights from your classmates.

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Oops...

The correct answer was "To consolidate and apply new knowledge with direct feedback and support".

Lectures are the main area where we introduce new material. Small group sessions are designed for deeper engagement with new concepts and ideas introduced in lectures. While small group sessions may provide you with the opportunity to chat to a lecturer or tutor about your thoughts or concerns on a module, this isn't really their primary purpose.

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Question 2/3

What's the best way to prepare for a small group session?

Google some relevant information ahead of a seminar.

You'll usually be asked to prepare something specific. Do that.

Ask your module leader for additional recommended reading.

That's right!

Keep an eye out for what your module leader assigns ahead of a small group session. This could be specific exercises, reading and discussion questions, or some other material that will prepare you to engage meaningfully with the group on the day.

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Oops...

The correct answer was "You'll usually be asked to prepare something specific".

It's not a bad idea to do some independent research or ask your lecturer for further reading if you're keen, but this would be in addition to preparing set material. It's crucial you come to the session having prepared the specific set material.

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Question 3/3

What can you expect to do during a small group session?

Just listen to what the tutor or lecturer says because their answers matter the most.

Try to get your answers right; don't speak up unless you know it's correct.

Be brave and participate. Get as much feedback as you can.

That's right!

It's important to be brave and speak up during small group sessions. Whether your answer is "right" or not (if there even is a right answer) isn't really important. The feedback you get from not only your lecturers or tutors, but also your classmates, is the most valuable part of the session.

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Oops...

The correct answer was "Be brave and participate, get as much feedback as you can."

Getting the "right" answers isn't really the point. There won't always be a right answer anyway, but even if there is, engaging and getting feedback is much more important. Small group sessions are a good time to get valuable feedback from your lecturers and tutors, but you'll also gain a lot by listening to and engaging with your classmates.

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Small group teaching and learning

Now you're ready for your seminars and workshops! Remember you can revisit this presentation at any time in Canvas.

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