strategies for informal group discussion

• When asked to facilitate or lead a group discussion, planning is important so that it becomes animated but focused.
• Time is wasted if the discussion goes into detours that have no bearing on what the discussion hopes to accomplish.
• To achieve a well-planned discussion, think about the cognitive, social/emotional, and physical factors that come into play in an informal group discussion.
• Identify and articulate objectives to ensure that the purpose of the discussion is clear to all participants, and then form your plan accordingly.
• Create an inclusive environment by treating group mates with respect and consideration, and do not play favorites by letting only a few dominate the discussion.
• Do not use (or allow others to use) disrespectful language, whether verbal or nonverbal.
• Encourage alternative views or counter arguments as these make for a good discussion.
• Be humble enough to admit your own ignorance or confusion.
• Plan by asking the right questions to stimulate, direct, analyze, or summarize, depending on your purpose for doing so.
• Provide direction and maintain focus by summarizing key issues occasionally and refocusing attention if the discussion seems to be getting off track.
• Bring closure by synthesizing the discussion to link the discussion to the original objectives.
• Know the strengths and weaknesses of your group mates and assign roles according to what they can do best.
• Develop a sense of fun in the group without losing sight of your purpose.
• Make sure everyone is engaged and is able to speak up, especially if you have a group mate who likes to monopolize the discussion and one who hardly says anything.
• Be sensitive to group chemistry and what each member feels.
• Choose a place and seating arrangement where the discussion can take place without distraction if you can.
• It is best to have no more than eight (8) members in a group.
• Sit in a circle, or at least have everyone see and hear each other.
• Make sure that the ventilation, noise level, and room temperature are right as these can prevent or distract you from holding a successful group interaction.
• Unfinished business – matter/s that need to be decided on or resolved.
• Officers or committee reports – as needed or if part of the agenda.
• Adjournment – formal closing of the meeting.
• Be respectful by listening when others are speaking.
• Vote on motions – to register approval or dissent on a motion.
• Debate motion – to give issues to be discussed or voted on.
• Making your motion involves speaking in a clear and concise manner.
• Back up point with evidence, appropriate experiences, and/or logic.
• For these times, being familiar with the conventions and strategies followed for specific interactions, whether they are meetings, debates, or panel discussions, is essential.
• Special orders – important business previously designated for consideration at the meeting.
• The parliamentary procedure usually follows a fixed order of business, such as the following:
• Reading minutes of the last meeting – the minutes may be circulated beforehand for correction, comments, and approval to save time.
• Obtaining the floor involves waiting until the last speaker has finished, rising or raising your hand, and addressing the chairperson as “Mr./Ms Chairperson” or “Mr./Ms President.”
• While informal group discussions will probably be the norm in most group interactions you will participate in, there will be times when a bigger audience in a more formal setting with set times and structures become necessary.
• When you disagree with what is being said, restate the point with which you disagree first to ensure you correctly understood what was said before calmly stating your objection.
• New business – issues that are up for discussion.
• Call to order – a signal that the meeting is about to begin.
• Volunteer to keep time or take down notes to make the job of the leader easier.
• Announcements – reminders or matter that everyone needs to know.
• As a group member, support the leader by actively participating.
• Individual members can: