ONE OF THE KEY PRINCIPLES for successful teaching of Search is the use of discussion questions as a classroom teaching tool. This can be a difficult assignment for teachers who have been accustomed to presenting their material in an expository manner.

Why are we encouraging discussion in class rather than the lecture method? Discussion en­sures retention of information. Scientific studies have established that a student will retain a mere 12% of what he hears when only listening. When a visual element is added, such as illustrations, diagrams, or objects, retention increases to 50%. But when a student is actively participating in the learning exercise, instead of passively sitting and watching, he will retain up to 90%.

Just what is discussion?

Considered in the context of a tool for Sunday school teaching, we might define it as "an informal group conversation which is centered on a Bible text and directed toward a meaningful goal." Now let's look closely at several of the key words in this definition.

INFORMAL

This mood is most effective for stimulating a good discussion. It suggests a circle of chairs rather than straight rows. It could mean a table surrounded by chairs. It implies the leader or mod­erator sits as part of a group, rather than standing in front of the class.

CONVERSATION

Everyone present is encouraged to contribute his ideas. Emphasis is on a give-and-take dialogue rather than a series of sermonettes delivered by each of the participants. The group size should not be so large as to make it impossible for everyone to have a part.

CENTERED ON A BIBLE TEXT

Our Sunday school classes should focus on effective Bible discussions. As such, each part of the discussion should have Scripture as its foundation. Personal experiences or thoughts should be brought out only as supporting evidence for the Scriptures being considerad.

DIRECTED

A successful discussion must have a leader. He has the responsibility of guiding the talk into the right channels, and making sure it stays these. He is the catalyst, guide, and clarifier. He is not an answer man, the last word, or a monopolizer.

A MEANINGFUL GOAL

One danger of the discussion technique of teaching is that the class will be considered successful just because a lot was said. That is not the case. The good class discussion will contribute to the spiritual growth of the individuals participating. The goal or objective of the lesson will have been presented, and then supported and illustrated by the ensuing discussion.

Jesus himself was a master at the use of a discussion question designed to bring wisdom out of common folk. "Whom do men say that I am?" (Mark 8:27); "Whom say ye that I am?" (Mark 8:29); and "which now of these three . . . was neighbour unto him?" (Luke 10:36). The art of questioning is an important and necessary skill which can be learned and improved upon.

Teachers, ask the Lord to help you to develop these techniques and do your best!