Group Discussion
The two main aspects of a group discussion are:
- What is learned: factual material as well as the process of working in a group
- What is produced: written paper, presentation, assignment and/or media project
Participating in a group discussion gives you a chance to:
- Formulate your own ideas
- Try opinions out and develop your own critical faculty
- Ask questions arising from lectures, your reading of a text or critical material
- Get to grips with subject with help from your peers and your tutor
- Get to know other people
| Factors leading to ineffective group discussion | Factors leading to effective group discussion |
|---|---|
| Unwillingness to listen, fixed position | Listening to each other's points of view |
| Lack of input in discussion | Contributing and sharing ideas, not being afraid to take risks |
| Exclusion of some members | Everyone getting their say |
| Lack of confidence in one's own knowledge and opinions | Preparation - aids understanding of discussion, enables formulation of own opinions and contribution to discussion. Informal discussion outside tutorials can build confidence |
| Being intimidated - both by tutor's knowledge and by other members of the group | Trust and mutual respect create a safe and relaxed atmosphere |
| Long silences - can be uncomfortable | Giving each other time to reflect and formulate ideas |
| Not feeling like you can ask questions | Being prepared to ask questions, clarify points and become familiar with terminology |
| Some members not responding to other people's ideas, e.g. looking out the window, staring at the floor etc. | Positive body language shows you are alert and involved in the discussion - e.g. nodding, eye-contact, affirmative noises all help to create a mutually supportive atmosphere |
| Physical location, type of teaching room and seating arrangements can all affect group discussion | Although physical location is often beyond our control, try to make the best of it. It helps to be able to see all members of the group |
| Fear of group processes | Acknowledgement of group dynamics |
| Size is important | Larger groups can be broken down into smaller groups |
| Problem of fortnightly meetings, lack of commitment of group members can lead to problems in forming group dynamic | Continuity important in creating positive and safe group atmosphere - shared involvement and commitment helps |
| Attitudes within the group affect group discussions | Ideally all members facilitate group discussion by helping to create a safe environment for the exploration of ideas |