Using Discussions (Text)

Web Tool:

Industry:

Projects:

Engineering Problems

“Engineering Problems” is an activity that uses Nicenet.org in order for learners to use the on-line discussion features. Learners are requested to examine an engineering project to define project parameters and challenges.

Outcomes:

The learner will be able to:

  • Express opinions in a group setting
  • Discuss project parameters using tool

Preparation:

  • Note instructor needs to create a “classroom chat or discussion space”
  • Discuss the importance of planning, including editing long before learners sit down to 'publish' their ideas
  • Review conversation gambits

Delivery:

  1. Warm-Up
    • Teach the tool if necessary
  2. Presentation
    • Group learners as to disciplines to compare and contrast types of projects they had experience with.
    • Discuss past experiences being involved in a specific engineering project such as building a bridge.
  3. Practice
    • Create possible discussion questions that can be used in the discussion space on “Nicenet”
      • Define project parameters:
        • Where was the project?
        • What was the project?
        • How long was the project?
        • What were the project goals?
        • What were the constraints such scope, time and budget?
        • What was the one main challenge that needed to be overcome?
    • Review vocabulary conversation - compare and contrast gambits; review vocabulary related to projects (such as risks, parameters, etc.)
  4. Production
    • Discuss in pairs, then in larger groups the issues surrounding the topic in order to clarify thoughts before using the online chat
    • Post responses of summary using the tool (as a summary)

The Canadian Language Benchmarks (CLB) skills addressed by this activity are:

  • Listening
  • Speaking
  • Reading
  • Writing