First, I should probably define a consensus statement. In Humanities, we do a great deal of group discussion before we "answer" open-ended or critical thinking questions. The groups then developed a consensus statement, which is a well-written glimpse at the discussion. It is almost as if this statement is a window into the discussion. All group members should agree on the statement and everyone's ideas should be represented.
I've had students create consensus statements and submit them in a variety of formats: a single paragraph answer that is read to the class, a class Verso discussion, and a Sway. My favorite, when doing a novel study, is using the Sway. Students are always amazed at how easy it is to make a well-designed response. They add to their group's Sway so that by the end of the selection/novel, they have some culminating answers that will help them prepare for the assessment and will capture the most important aspects of the piece.
Pros of using Sway for this activity:
- Simplistic
- Easy to share
- Many authors can manipulate the content, but it appears cohesive due to the layouts
Cons of using Sway:
- Difficult to change groups
- Limited in the types of responses at this time (voice recording would be AMAZING)
