DISCUSSION QUESTIONS

48 points (8 submissions of 2 questions each, 3 points per question)

NOTE:  Each week there is reading assigned, you are to submit 2 questions.  

In order to provide a further exploration of ideas from the assigned reading and to ensure you are undertaking required readings, at the beginning of class, you are required to submit in a class when there was assigned readings 2 questions which would help to further yours and the class’ exploration and comprehension of the ideas.  Make two copies of these questions, one you submit to me at the beginning of class and another you will use during the class. 

Formulating discussion questions provides you with the opportunity to reflect on the issues being discussed in the readings and to ask questions to further expound upon the ideas presented.  

With each question, you must provide a context, i.e. a rationale for asking the question, that is,

-  from where are you drawing upon the ideas and issues to formulate a question that delves deeper into the subject matter,

-  why is your questions relevant, important,

-  what is the reasoning behind your question,

-  what is the purpose of your question.  

This does not mean you are to answer the question.  You may wish to provide some possible options for answers as you provide the questions, i.e. identifying some issues or factors for consideration when the question would actually be addressed by someone.  

You are not to submit questions which are answered in the readings, although some ideas of answers may be alluded to in the readings.  

Your questions should not simply be closed questions, e.g. yes/no, disagree/agree, but instead they should require substantive replies, so that if question is asked of the class, a comprehensive explanation would need to be given/discussion would be undertaken, not simply a one word syllabus answer.  

Consider positive and negative ramifications of subject matter.  

Consider relevance and applicability to similar and related issues, policy matters, current events.

Consider assumptions and foundations of some of the ideas presented in the readings.  

Consider different interpretations of issues presented depending on the function and role of individual/organization/societal institution. 

Revised: January 10, 2006 .