Discussion lacking in the classroom

What would you say to an instructor who tells you that discussions have no place in his or her course?
I would tell this instructor that they are missing out on a large part of their class. Discussion are incredibly important in any class for a number of reasons. First, it helps you as the instructor know if students are actually understanding the material being presented. By asking questions and asking for rational for an answer as an instructor you are able to see where you need to re-explain material. Discussions are also very important for building comradery among students in the classroom. When students are able to discuss their ideas in a safe classroom they are able to see what their peers are thinking and build off of those thoughts when answering questions. In an online or hybrid class it is also vitally important as students need don’t really get to know one another without discussing material in a discussion forum setting. Finally, it helps you as the instructor know that they fully understand the material because they are able to apply the concepts to real life questions you ask them. For example, where are you going to use this information in the future? Getting the students to realize that the material that they learn in the class will extend long after they have a degree is vitally important. However, students do not always put those connections together without asking them to as part of a larger discussion. Students can give each other ideas as part of a larger conversation. In today’s day and age where many colleges are seeing a decline in enrollment, it is important to help students see that your class will be beneficial to them after they graduate. Some students are even working while getting a degree so they can apply material learn to their jobs immediately. Ultimately, I would strongly encourage any instructor to use discussions in their class.