There are several ways to organize a collective discussion of a problem situation - brainstorming, brain-ring, round table, discussion. With the help of a well-conducted discussion, the optimal group decision can be made. In addition, both junior schoolchildren and students and company employees are able to take part in the discussion.
Necessary
audio and video recordings on the topic of discussion, posters, markers, finger puppets
Instructions
Step 1
The discussion requires preliminary preparation of its organizers. Identify the problem area within which the discussion will take place. Having decided, break it down into theses, which will be submitted for general consideration. These messages can be presented on a board or handout in the form of facts and questions. Information received visually is perceived better than what we only hear.
Step 2
You need to be well trained in debate theory so you don't get lost and feel like a leader. Be prepared to answer unexpected questions and comment on what participants said during the discussion.
Step 3
Be sure to have up-to-date statistics on the issue. Exupery also noted in The Little Prince that adults are most interested in numbers and are very fond of comparing them.
Step 4
If children of primary and secondary school age are to take part in the discussion, actively use puppet theater. Finger puppets and hand-made toys are sold in children's departments, and you can also make them yourself or order from the appropriate master. As a rule, the psychologist's office in educational institutions is equipped with such toys, so you can borrow them from him for a while.
Step 5
Prepare audio and video tapes, illustrations, and everyday examples that reflect the subject of the discussion.
Step 6
At the beginning of the discussion, it is worth announcing the rules for its conduct:
- if you want to say something, wait for the previous speaker to speak;
- courtesy and respect for all participants;
- when discussing, it is forbidden to pass on the personalities of those present;
- if someone does not want to continue the topic of discussion, he can say so;
- if the discussion concerns intragroup issues, then it makes sense to stipulate the confidentiality of the topics raised and the decisions made.
You can add your own rules if needed.
Step 7
The organizer of the discussion should be able to ask leading questions, to some extent provoke the participants, that is, encourage them to actively discuss and summarize what has been said. After discussing each thesis, it would be good to write down the conclusions obtained on the board.
Step 8
At the end of the discussion, summarize the general outcome of the meeting and say whether the goals were achieved. Those present can also comment on this.
