Which technique involves a pause for students to think before responding during discussions?

The technique that involves a pause for students to think before responding during discussions is known as the Think time technique. This strategy emphasizes the importance of allowing students a moment to gather their thoughts and formulate their responses after a question or prompt has been presented. By incorporating this pause, instructors can enhance critical thinking and encourage deeper engagement with the material being discussed.

The Think time technique is particularly beneficial in promoting student participation because it helps to reduce anxiety among those who may need more time to process their thoughts before speaking. It creates an inclusive environment where all students have the opportunity to contribute meaningfully to discussions.

In contrast, group discussions are more about collaborative dialogue among students rather than focused pauses for individual contemplation. Similarly, individual assessments and peer evaluations serve different educational purposes such as measuring understanding or fostering feedback, rather than emphasizing a thinking pause in conversation.