Thematic Conversation/Matrix Exchange
Without the exchange of ideas, thinkers tend to retreat into private universes. The Socratic dialogue is an indispensable tool for sharpening of thinking and avoiding dead ends. Science is a collaborative process. Learning is a team sport.
Matrix Exchange To Master Matrix Construction
Beginning Middle End
| 1.) Exchange of matrices:
2.) 2 minute written reaction 3.) one minute deep breathing attitude check (see step 5) |
Around table
Equal time for each Speaker. (Use an old fashioned egg timer, watch, or cell phone)
One member creates master matrix on white board or black board |
1 minute written summaries.
Around Table Again.
Review of master matrix,
Approval of master Matrix (each side approves own side) |
If there is one thing I learned as a student and a teacher, it is that the quality of a discussion is a function of three variables
a.) the amount of written work each participant has done before hand (reading without writing is like eating without digesting)
b.) the ability of the teacher to manage the discussion process such that each student gets roughly equal time to express her views and be challenged;
c.) the systematic summary of the collective wisdom of the class so that what is learned can serve as a foundation for future learning.
The construction and exchange of matrices before formal discussion begins prevents the degeneration of conversation into a “mutual rant” where the path of the conversation resembles a random walk with each party looking for the weakest point in the argument of the other. Discussion wanders jaggedly away from what matters most, maximizing ill will and frustration. The sands shift constantly: “that’s not what I said,” “that’s not what I meant at all.”
To get beyond the echo chamber, build up as diverse a possible a group of friends committed to becoming more disciplined citizens.
These friends must be willing to meet regularly and do written homework before each session.
Without a master matrix to build on, future conversations will be re-enactments of the prior one. Constant wheel reinvention is not a recipe for progress.