How to Conduct Discussion Groups

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    How to Conduct Discussion Groups

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    Guidelines to Conduct Discussion Groups

    Note that the reader might best be served to first read the topic Group Dynamics to understand the basic nature of most groups and their typical stages of development. (It’s not clear at this time if online groups have similar nature and stages.)

    Typical Purpose of a Discussion Group

    The purpose of the discussion technique is to ensure interaction among group members to identify, clarify, analyze and/or select an item, for example, about:

    • Issues
    • Recommendations
    • Objectives
    • Responsibilities
    • Timelines

    Process for a Discussion Group

    The process of the discussion technique typically includes the following steps.

    1. Specify the discussion topic and the goal to the planning group (if possible, do this step as pre-work before the next meeting). The goal is usually to identify, clarify, analyze and/or select an item.
    2. It is often best if the topic is described in the form of a “yes/no” question or a choice from among alternatives, for example, “Should we approve ___?” or “Should we hire ____?”.
    3. Specify when the discussion is to start and stop.
    4. Allow for open, unassigned exchange of information, for example, questions, suggestions or general comments until it is time to stop the discussion. Give the group a 2-minute warning when time is almost up.
    5. Facilitate to focus the discussion around the topic.
    6. Attempt to capture key points on a flipchart.

    Optional:

    • Attempt to summarize the discussion by identifying conclusions or decisions from the discussion.
    • The group can make selections from the results using voting (ranking or rating) and/or consensus techniques.

    Important Skills for Facilitation of Discussion Groups

    The quality of the discussion group can be enhanced significantly if guided by a skilled facilitator.
    All About Facilitation

    Also, sound skills in meeting management ensure a clear and consistent purpose and framework in which to work toward that purpose.
    Guidelines to Conducting Effective Meetings

    Various Perspectives on Discussion Groups

    For the Category of Facilitation and Teams:

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