Facilitating Discussions
Group discussions are common, and this manual provides instruction in facilitating the most common types of discussions. Learn about moderating a panel discussion, facilitating a brainstorming meeting, leading a problem-solving discussion, handling challenging people during discussions, and helping a problem-solving group achieve a consensus.
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1. The Seminar Solution
| Time: |
20-30 minutes |
| Objectives: |
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Present an introductory short talk or brief lecture describing a theory, model or information about a topic that will be discussed by a group following the presentation. |
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Organize the information so that it is easy to understand and can be remembered. |
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Orient the group to think about the specific goal of the discussion that follows. |
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Use a buzz session discussion technique to promote group participation in deriving information leading to a solution to the problem. |
2. The Round Robin
| Time: |
20-30 minutes |
| Objectives: |
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Establish the meaning of a question with a discussion group. |
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Using a problem solving pattern, lead the participants in a brainstorming session. |
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Screen the possible solutions and lead the group in deciding what action to take. |
3. Pilot a Panel
| Time: |
30-40 minutes |
| Objectives: |
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Select a problem for panel discussion. Select not less than three members in advance to speak on the panel. |
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Define the common goals and the purpose of the panel. |
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Acting as moderator, monitor the panel discussion to inform the audience. |
4. Make Believe (Role Playing)
| Time: |
20-30 minutes |
| Objectives: |
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Understand what role-playing is and how to use it effectively in group communication. |
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Select a problem involving human relations in which you may use the role-playing method to illustrate and explore the problem. |
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Create a plot and characters relevant to the discussion problem and select a cast from among the group members. |
5. The Workshop Leader
| Time: |
30-40 minutes |
| Objectives: |
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Building group unity, guide the workshop participants in an investigative discussion of the problem. |
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Follow a problem solving pattern to arrive at a solution. |
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Bring the group to an agreement before the discussion end. |
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