<p>What is the difference between a discussion and a lecture? Is one better than the other? Do they both earn credits?</p>
<p>Lectures are usually large (100+ person) classes. The professor, or occasionally grad student, stands at the front of the room and lectures about course material. Discussion sections are small 15-25 person groupings where you meet outside of lectures to discuss the material with a TA. Sections are usually mandatory, lectures less so - but policies will vary by department. TA’s are either grad students or high achieving juniors/seniors depending on the department. Sections will often have weekly assignments in addition to whatever papers/tests the professor assigns.</p>