Ideal for classroom discussions and training critical thinking, the free Kialo Discussion plugin lets you hold online debates in an engaging argument-mapping format. Kialo’s straightforward pro/con layout prompts students to break down their arguments into digestible chunks, to which their peers can instantly respond with their own pros and cons. The result is a visual map of the discussion, with complex ideas structured into easy-to-follow lines of reasoning.

Why Kialo?

Maximum Participation

It can be hard to get everyone participating in a class discussion. But it’s no problem on Kialo, where students can contribute instantly, simultaneously, and from anywhere.

Safer and More Inclusive

Ease common anxieties around class discussions with Kialo’s text-based format. More features that separate the argument from the arguer ensure the focus is always on ideas — not who said them!

Deeper Topic Comprehension

Kialo is designed for breaking down arguments into understandable chunks. The connective format makes it easy to follow how these simple ideas build on one another to form complex reasoning.

Better Contributions

Kialo pushes students to show their reasoning! The argument-mapping structure encourages concise, substantive contributions that have to be connected to other points in the discussion.

Better for Critical Thinking

It can be hard to find the time and the right activities for teaching important critical thinking skills. Research shows that argument-mapping tools like Kialo are one of the best ways to teach it!

Teacher-Focused Tools