During a class discussion, what role does the instructor primarily serve?

In a class discussion, the instructor primarily serves as a facilitator. This role involves guiding the conversation, encouraging participation from all students, and helping to ensure that the discussion remains on track and relevant to the learning objectives. A facilitator focuses on creating an interactive environment where students feel comfortable sharing their thoughts and experiences, which enhances collaborative learning.

By guiding discussions, the instructor not only provides structure but also fosters critical thinking and deeper understanding among students. Discussions often draw upon diverse perspectives, and the facilitator helps navigate these differing viewpoints, prompting students to consider alternative ideas and engage with each other constructively. This approach contrasts with solely lecturing or evaluating, as those roles typically involve more one-directional communication where the instructor imparts knowledge or assesses student performance rather than cultivating a dynamic dialogue.