There are a number of methods you can use to encourage those that participate in group discussions. One technique is to ask a single question and make a request for all the members to discuss it. The members can read the question, and they can tell the other members what they think the question means.
It is best to use open-ended questions, because they will allow the members to think about the topics. Everyone should be allowed to give their thoughts on the question. It is always important to make sure the group stays on topic.
If you notice that members are getting off topic, politely direct them back to the topic that is being discussed. It is also important for everyone to listen, even the leader. They should understand the statements that are being made by members. If they do not, they should ask the member to clarify the point they are making. It is also important to make comments on statements that have been made by the other members. When your respond to a statement that has been made, this can create a domino effect where other members will respond as well, and new ideas or solutions can be formulated.
There are a number of guidelines that you will want to follow at the conclusion of the discussion. You should always create a summary about the topic that has been discussed. Ask the members to review the things that have been discussed, as this will allow them to commit the various points to memory. It is important for the members of the group to keep notepads handy where they can write down important points that have been made. One of the common goals of group discussions is to brainstorm ideas. When members of a group are brainstorming an idea, there are a number of things they will do.
First, the topic will be given to the group. Each member will think about the topic for set period of time, and will begin coming up with a number of different ideas. The other members of the group should build on the ideas that have already been presented. After the idea creation period has ended, the ideas which have been developed will be organized and reviewed. The results will be shared with the entire group. Brainstorming plays an important role in group discussions, and is excellent for a situation where a group needs to come up with a solution to a complex problem.
When group discussion are held, it is important for them to receive encouragement. This encouragement can come from the group leader, or it can come from the other members. It will bring about results that are the exact opposite of what happens when the idea of a member is put-down by others in the group. The group that participates in discussions should behave like a well oiled machine. Everyone should be on the same page. The success of the group, not the individuals, is the most important factor. When members encourage each other, this will build a strong comraderie that will allow the group to function as one. The biggest problems in group discussions occur when members discourage each other and promote their own ideas.
Group discussion are successful when all the members respect each other. When someone comes up with a great idea, they should be thanked for their participation. Members who are quiet should be allowed to convey their thoughts to the other members, and the participants who are outspoken should spend more time listening to what the other members have to say. No one member should ever be allowed to dominate the conversation in group discussion. Every member of the group should be given an equal amount of time to convey their own thoughts to the group.
It is crucial for everyone to feel like they are contributing to the discussion. Conflicts should be avoided or reduced at all costs, as they can destroy the ability to the group to move forward and come up with good ideas or solutions. Encouragement will give members the confidence they need, and this will allow them to work hard to make sure the group become successful.
Posted in Labels: How To Encourage Members During Group Discussions