Discussion

What is a discussion?

Not:

A recitation

Talking by people who know little and care less about the subject

A debate

An opportunity for one or two people to show off

Is:

Thinking aloud

Verbalization of concepts learned

Opinions held and passing thoughts

An opportunity for everyone to defend, explain, and modify their viewpoints

Criteria for Good Discussions Questions

The question implies a genuine interest in different points of view

The question probes an erea of expertise that is of immediate as well as remote concern

Discussion questions imply values and the process of evaluating known facts

Questions that ask for most, least, best, worst; which would you rather do; is it better to; ...

Encourage a sorting and evaluation process that promotes exchange of knowledge as well as ideas

Responsibilities of Leadership

Open the discussion and provide the objectives

Raise points for discussion

Keep the discussion moving towards the point

Act as "backstop"

Act as "Traffic Policeman"

Act as a Guide with a Road Map

Openly identify the agreed upon points and then limit discussion to points yet outstanding

Bring the discussion to a close as soon as a concensus is reached (within any time limit)