Applying the group discussion method in vocational educational institutions on the example of computer subjects

Abstract

Formulation of the problem. The article considers the problem of applying the group discussion method in vocational educational institutions on the example of computer subjects. There is a problem of developing students’ critical analysis of the information content and instilling the communication skills, promoting the professional training of students and teachers for the positive and responsible use of infor- mation and communication technology, and services.

The purpose of the article. To consider the main peculiarities of the applying of group discussion methods in the educational process of vocational institutions on the example of computer subjects.

The main results of the study. The modern learning process is analyzed, which provides for one of the important tasks to significantly expand the forms of learning activities of students. The characteristics of teaching methods are given. The theoretical foundations of the educational process are highlighted, which should be constructed as communication, interaction, exchange of initiatives of its participants. This is the way the educational process is organized using group, interactive (interaction-based) teaching methods – discussions, role-playing, and simulation games. The focus is on the group discussion as the most prevalent method. The main task of the group discussion is revealed: to identify the existing diversity of participants’ points of view on any problem and a comprehensive analysis of each of them on the example of computer topics. It has been proved that the organized training and education, carried out within the framework of a particular pedagogical system, has a certain organizational design, differing by the quantitative coverage of students, the ratio of collective and individual forms of organization of students’ activities, the degree of their self-activity and the specifics of the educational process management by the teacher. The practical example describes the stages of conducting a discussion lesson, which contributes to the development of basic communication skills of students, develops their thinking and speaking, while they master the public speaking skills and evidence-based argument, increases their interest in computer topics. We offer the author’s lesson plan for vocational institutions on the topic “Book and computer in the information society: pros and cons”.

Conclusions. It is concluded that discussion is one of the most difficult types of interactive lessons. Students should not only have an understanding of the main interpretations of essential IT problems, but also express their own opinions on various issues. Discussion of these questions is impossible without gaining experience in dialogue and discussion.