ABSTRACT
The key challenge for the leader/manager of a group discussion is to keep the discussion on track while at the same time allowing participants the freedom to express themselves. A good leader/manager:
• has prepared for the discussion via research or information gathering; • has an agenda or proposed structure for the discussion; • allows variation in structure according to student interest; • creates a safe atmosphere in which students feel confident in contributing; • asks open questions as opposed to closed questions with one acceptable answer
only; • asks prompt questions which are stimulating; • is able to make any disagreements between students positive and developmental
of the discussion;
• is able to control dominant speakers and encourage reluctant ones; • is an active listener: for example, requests clarification if a student’s contribution
needs it; • encourages all students to participate; • does not dominate the discussion with his/her own views; • values all contributions and demonstrates this; • summarises clearly.
