ABSTRACT
The choice of discussion as a medium of learning may reflect a view of the nature of knowledge; or a set of ideas about the way in which understanding develops; or a view of the importance of fostering intellectual autonomy and social collaboration. Bridges emphasizes the importance of a shared understanding of social and procedural rules. This rule should, reflect such values as reasonableness, orderliness, truthfulness, freedom, equality, and respect for persons. Each syndicate works on the task presented: the intensive discussions within the syndicates are the heart of the technique. The problems, for pupils or students and for teachers or tutors, are largely the result of the intensity of their socialization into patterns of behaviour and perceptions of role that support didactic teaching. Teachers and students have a considerable range of different aims in their work and it is necessary to be clear as to how syndicate techniques are related to such aims.
