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Teaching Group Discussion Skills

What is a group discussion?

A group discussion refers to a set of persons brought together to express their opinion and to the subsequent exchange of views on the allocated subject. 

When are group discussions held?

Group discussions are held as part of:

• a recruitment process,
• eliciting opinions/ideas on any subject or plan of action
• decision-making and problem solving,
• reaching a consensus, etc.

Why are group discussions held?

There could be several reasons for holding a group discussion.

1. In the recruitment process: When a large number of candidates are present, group discussions are held for assessing skills and eliminating candidates.
2. In brainstorming: The purpose here is to elicit opinions or ideas. Therefore, group discussions are held so that a large number of people can express their opinion and hear the opinion of others. This leads to the generation of a large number of ideas in a short time. 
3. As part of problem solving and decision-making: Group discussions can be held to debate different options, discuss the pros and cons of each, and arrive at a suitable decision. 
4. For reaching a consensus: Group discussions can help participants listen to the opinion of all concerned, convince those with differing points of view, and arrive at mutually satisfying solutions. 

How are group discussion conducted?

Group discussions for selection and recruitment are conducted 
either in a 

1. structured or 
2. an un-structured manner. 

In structured group discussions, participants are allocated a time and sequence in which to participate and give their opinion on the given subject. 

In un-structured group discussions, the participants are free to discuss the given subject without any constraint. 

In both forms of group discussion, an observer takes notes regarding the participants and their level of participation. Selection decisions are based on these observations.

In group discussions meant for brainstorming, problem solving, and decision-making, the person who calls for the meeting conducts and moderates the session. The ideas generated are noted, summarized, and circulated for further action. 

Is it important to learn how to participate in group discussions?

Whether you are looking for employment or are already in a job, group discussion skills are essential if you want to be successful and contribute effectively. 

What group discussion skills are assessed?

The group discussion skills that are assessed are:

1. Communication skills
2. Soft skills
3. Interpersonal skills
4. Team working skills
5. Conflict management skills
6. Taking initiative
7. Leadership skills
8. Presentation skills
9. Negotiation skills
10. Observation skills

How are group discussion skills assessed?

The following points form the basis for assessing group discussion skills:

1. How you shared your ideas and suggestions
2. How slowly and clearly you spoke
3. How you answered questions posed by others
4. How you encouraged others to participate
5. How you expressed your disagreement with the opinions of others
6. Did you remain on topic and help others do the same?
7. Did you summarize and repeat ideas when necessary?
8. Did you substantiate your point of view?
9. Did you listen to others? Were they aware you listened?
10. Did you understand and extend ideas presented by others?

How can group discussion skills be developed?

Several points should be kept in mind to develop group discussion skills.

1. It is important to understand what skills are assessed and how they are assessed. This understanding will form the basis for developing group discussion skills.

2. Observe the different behavior styles of different people during everyday interactions in everyday situations.

3. Consciously practice behaviors that depict the skills being assessed. For instance:

• During conversation, observe yourself and how others in the group react to you. 
• Pause and restate your point differently if the reaction is not what you expected. 
• Listen to others and ask clarifying questions. 
• When you do not agree with others, express your views politely without interrupting. 
• Express your views by giving examples to substantiate your point of view.
• Listen to their clarifications and ask questions to clarify your doubts if any.
• When you agree with someone else’s point of view, express your agreement and the reasons for your agreement.
• Summarize your and the other person’s views and elicit the understanding of all the participants on the views expressed.

Remember: Taking the initiative in the discussion is a key way of showing you are confident and aware of the subject. However, it should be done in a manner that is not pushy and aggressive. You can show your level of confidence by moderating the discussion and encouraging the quiet group members to speak. The role of moderator will give you the opportunity to show your listening, negotiation, problem solving, conflict management, and leadership skills.

You can put these suggestions into practice either in an unstructured or in a structured manner. To employ these suggestions in an unstructured manner, you must use observation, understanding, and a ‘trial and error’ method. 

To employ these suggestions in a structured manner you will have to

• attend special training classes given by career counselors or
• seek help from special guides, recruitment service providers, and training and placement services who provide free or paid services in this area.

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