• confident learners

• providing a novel approach to managing discussion in a large group

• enabling participants to see how to structure a debate

• energizing discussion by involving movement

• providing an effective compromise between involving the whole group in a learning activity, and having something managed and focused.

• As preparation for the goldfish bowl, divide the class into small discussion groups and give each group one side of the debate to research and discuss. This will mean learners have a chance to consider the issues relating to the debate and encourage learners to be more confident in their contributions. The preparation could take place immediately prior to the goldfish bowl, or set as homework.

• Break up a large group into two or more simultaneous goldfish bowls – this might be less daunting to participants and thus encourage participation.

• Some example topics for discussion:

— Is it OK to download music illegally?

— What is wrong with copying and pasting for my class work?

— Privacy online: Google and Facebook retain a lot of your personal information – is this good or bad?

• This activity requires a motivated group of learners in order to work well. The choice of topic is vital as it must be one that engages the group and thus provoke discussion.

• Keep an eye out for the discussion being dominated by a few members of the group. You may have to encourage quieter learners to contribute.

• If the discussion stalls, be prepared to join in yourself with some controversial or thought-provoking comments or questions.