Small group teaching: Key texts

Practical guidance
We have chosen the texts below for inclusion in this section because they both focus on the practical elements of small group teaching. In addition, Exley and Dennick (2004) consider the role of eTechnologies in supporting small group teaching. Texts two and three listed here provide useful ideas for your teaching which, although a little older than the first, still have currency today if used appropriately in support of your (and your students!) conceptual approach to learning and teaching.

1. Exley, K, Dennick, R, 2004. Small Group Teaching: Tutorials, Seminars and Beyond. Abingdon: RoutledgeFalmer.
   This text offers new lecturers and experienced colleagues a comprehensive, assessable approach to small group teaching. The authors clearly state a strong alignment to constructivist theory; that learners build knowledge based on discovered as opposed to ‘delivered’ knowledge. Practical solutions to common issues are offered with specific examples supported by research and illustrations. This text includes consideration of structuring small group sessions, managing the learning environment and skills acquisition, with a useful chapter on problem based learning.
2. Gibbs, G, Habeshaw, T, 1989. Preparing to Teach: An Introduction to Effective Teaching in Higher Education. Bristol: Technical and Educational Services Ltd.
   This handbook, based on the authors’ wealth of practical experience gained in the field, is primarily aimed at first time teachers, offering practical concise solutions for teaching small groups to address a number of related issues. The text, part of a series, is currently out of print but continues to be widely used by education specialists and lecturers alike.
3. Habeshaw, S, Gibbs, G, Habeshaw, T, 1984. 53 Interesting Things to do In Your Seminars and Tutorials. Bristol: Technical and Educational Services Ltd.
   Part of the above series. A wide variety of specific solutions. Particularly useful for structuring small groups and encouraging participation.