Getting the Most out of Classroom Discourse: Using Discussion Circles to Support and Structure Discussions in the Language Classroom

This paper offers an overview of a structured approach to classroom student-led discussions, including the rationale, processes and procedures. Specifically, we briefly review the origins and development of discussion circles (sometimes referred to as literature circles) and detail how this powerful approach is being implemented in a content and language integrated learning (CLIL) program for non-English majors learning the language at a private university in western Japan. Additionally, it is argued that a similar approach might also boost learner engagement and better ensure deeper levels of learning in a range of university courses, included but not limited to language courses. It is hoped that this snapshot inspires readers to experiment with discussion circles and other active learning approaches