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Designing Structured Discussions with KialoEdu

Description

Open classroom discussion often privileges the same voices and rarely produces evidence of thinking. This session explores how to design structured, argument-based discussions using KialoEdu—a free, no-student-account-required platform that organizes dialogue into a visual argument tree. Participants will explore the "why" behind structured academic discussion, learn how Kialo's thesis/pro/con format supports deeper reasoning, and leave with practical strategies for scaffolding student contributions in any content area and grade level.

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A Message from the Moderators

This page gives you everything you need to make the most of your session. Review the recommended accounts before you join, track your checkpoints during the session, and follow the certificate instructions when you're done.

Before You Begin

  • You will have the best live technical experience using either the Chrome or Firefox browser. (Note: we have also had success with the Edge browser.) Safari is NOT recommended. There is a TrainerCentral Learner app for Android and iOS.

  • Your lead facilitator recommends having accounts ready for the following tools before the session begins. Taking a few minutes to set these up in advance means you'll spend your time learning, not troubleshooting.

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Session Checkpoints

Checkpoints help us verify your participation and are required to earn a certificate of completion. Here's what to expect during the session:

Checkpoint 1 — Say Hello
 Introduce yourself in the chat within the first 10 minutes of the session.

Checkpoint 2 — Schema Activator
 Participate in the opening poll or activity.

Checkpoint 3 — [Placeholder]
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Checkpoint 4 — [Placeholder]
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Checkpoint 5 — [Placeholder]
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Checkpoint 6 — Poll and Go
 Complete the closing poll before you leave.

If you experience technical difficulties during the session, most checkpoints can be completed up to one week after the live session date. Reach out to your facilitator if you need assistance.

Earning Your Certificate

To receive your certificate of completion you must complete all six session checkpoints and submit the post-session feedback survey. The feedback survey is how you request your certificate and is required for all participants — including those seeking state continuing education credit.

Certificates are typically issued within three weeks of the live session date.

Educators in Texas, Illinois, Pennsylvania, and Montana: Additional information required for state continuing education credit will be collected through the feedback survey.