Leadership

John Howe

Program Manager & Instructor

Before joining The Discussion Project in 2022 as an Expert Classroom Observer and Instructor, John taught high school English for 25 years in the Madison Metropolitan School District, where he enjoyed designing and teaching a wide variety of courses in writing, literature, and mass media literacy. He also served as department chair and as his school’s union representative with Madison Teachers Inc. In his spare time, he enjoys reading, running, hiking, and spending time with his family.

John Howe

Program Manager & Instructor Before joining The Discussion Project in 2022 as an Expert Classroom Observer and Instructor, John taught high school English for 25 years in the Madison Metropolitan School District, where he enjoyed designing and teaching a wide variety of courses in writing, literature, and mass media literacy. He also served as department chair and as his school’s union representative with Madison Teachers Inc. In his spare time, he enjoys reading, running, hiking, and spending time with his family.

Discover more team members

The Discussion Project is developed by leading educators at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. Coursework is designed to improve classroom discussion and leads to higher levels of engagement, belonging, and learning for students. Learn more about the leadership team and how they can help your instituion move forward.

The Discussion Project

Research and development

Founded at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, The Discussion Project is based on extensive academic and analysis. The interactive curriculum reflects learning from research and multiple iterations of field-testing, observation, and feedback. Through a learn-by-doing method, instructors learn effective ways to structure and facilitate discussion. It is funded by a $1mm grant from the University of Wisconsin-Madison and the Andrew W. Mellon Foundation.
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Create an equitable and inclusive classroom climate conducive to high quality discussion.

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Build institutional reputation for teaching quality

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Improve student and instructor engagement and retention

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Implement strategies that develop students’ discussion skills.

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Strengthen departmental profiles

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