GROUP DISCUSSION
GROUP DISCUSSION
A non-formal systematic
exchange of information, views
and opinions in a group about a
topic for a limited duration.
GD DEBATE
1. Raises an issue for 1. Advocates a particular
exchange of views point of view
2. A Co-operative group 2. A competitive individual
process activity
3. Flexible procedure 3. More formal in procedure
4. Broad approach allowing 4. Limited approach either
changes in viewpoint for or against
through discussion
5. Win-win result through a 5. Win-lose result
consensus
Parameters of Evaluation
1. Liveliness and Extent of Participation
2. Knowledge of the Topic& Fluency
3. Confidence and Assertiveness
4. Discussion Techniques
5. Influence on the Group (Leadership)
I. Types by Topic
1. Factual : Knowledge-Intensive -
Contemporary but controversial
topics
2. Abstract : Requiresunconventional
perspectives and creative
thinking.
3. CaseStudy : Requiresanalysis of
situationsand response in the
formof decisions/ problem
solving.
Features of successful GDs
• Goal oriented interaction
• Co-operative & Friendly atmosphere
• Effective use of communication
techniques
• Equitable participation
• Shared leadership
III. How to Prepare
1. Create an extensive knowledge
base.
2. Adopt an analytical way of
thinking.
3. Develop the art of discussion.
IV. While discussing :
1. Initiate the discussion.
2. Add additional points whenever you join.
3. Make a mental note of other’s points.
4. Show flexibility in your views.
[Link] a co-operative, accommodative,
encouraging attitude.
[Link] cheerful, smiling and lively.
[Link] eye contact with each member in
turn.
[Link] summing up, present the whole
group’s point of view
V. Some Don’ts
1. Don’t try to monopolize the discussion.
2. Don’t interrupt a participant in the middle
of his/her (short) speech.
3. Don’t make fun of any participant.
4. Don’t engage in sub-group conversations.
5. Don’t’ criticize the other’s view-point
without valid arguments.
6. Never lose your temper.
Useful Expressions for GD
1. Initiating :
• Well, friends, may I request your kind
attention ? As you all know,…
• Hello, everybody. May I have your kind
attention for a few seconds, please ? We are
all here to exchange our views on ,
and the time given to us is 20 minutes. So let
us begin.
2. Intervening :
• Excuse me. May I add a point here
? I think,…..
• I’m sorry to interrupt, but I have
something very important to say.
3. Giving Opinions :
• I have no doubt that …
• In my opinion, …
• I strongly believe that …
• As far as I am concerned, …
• As I see it,…
4. Agreeing :
• That’s true / right.
• I think you are right.
• Exactly.
• I am in complete agreement.
• I strongly agree with you here.
5. Disagreeing :
• That’snot true/ right.
• I think you are mistaken.
• I strongly disagree.
• This is totally unacceptable.
• I am sorry, but this is not possible/
feasible.
• That is a good idea, but I think, it will not
be feasible.
6. Encouraging :
• What do you feel about it ?
• What is your opinion about this ?
• What would you suggest ?
• Do you agree with previous
the speakers ?
• Do you think we should … ?
7. Bringing the Discussion to Track:
• I see what you mean, but it would be
better if we limit our discussion to
the given topic.
• I do understand your point but I think
we should go back to the main topic.
• That is not the main point under
discussion. Let us go back to the
main point.
8. Concluding :
• Let me now summarize the
group’s point of view.
• Finally, let me sum up the discussion.