Group Discussion and Debate

 

Group Discussion

The verb ‘discuss’ has been derived from the latin word “discutere” which means to shake or strike. The word discussion involves the probe, enquiry or examination of a subject from various angles in order to reach to a logical conclusion. The purpose of GD is to elicit the views of all participants involved in discussion.

Do’s of GD

1.      Define the topic.

2.      Analyze its scope and implications.

3.      Raise and advance the discussion with confidence.

4.      Listen to the views of other members intently.

5.      Encourage other dull members to contribute in the discussion.

6.      Give proper importance to the views of other members before presenting your own views.

7.      Present your views in a logical way.

8.      While presenting your views body language should be maintained.

9.      Have a clear voice and proper pronunciation.

10.  Try to wind up the discussion within allotted time.

11.  Maintain a relaxed and pleasant atmosphere throughout the discussion.

12.  Conclude the discussion with highlighting the main view points.

13.  Try to reach to a certain conclusion at end.

Don’ts of GD

1.      Don’t be assertive in presenting your views.

2.      Don’t make any personal remarks.

3.      Don’t reach to conclusion in a hurry.

4.      Don’t be quarrelsome with others.

5.      Don’t speak continuously for a long time.

6.      Neither be too high nor too low in your pitch.

7.      Don’t point your finger out to any member.

8.      Neither be aggressive nor nervous in your gestures.

Debate

A debate is a discussion between two sides with different views. Participants speak for the topic or against the topic. Debates are means of encouraging critical thinking, personal expression and tolerance of other’s opinion.

Difference between GD and Debate.

1.      In debate, the speaker assumes that there is a right answer and only the speaker has it while in a GD, it is assumed that many people have pieces of the answers and together they can come to a solution.

2.      Debate is about winning while in GD, participants explore common problem and try to find a solution.

3.      In debates, participants try to find flaws with the other side, while participants work together towards common understanding in GD.

4.      Participants defend their own views against others in debates and in GD participants believe and admit that others opinion can improve their thinking. Participants are defensive in debates and in GD participants are receptive.

5.      Participants are in search of weaknesses in debates and participants are in search of strengths and values in GD.