Exellent Communications Rule:1
There are some simple procedures that can help you to foster equal and open sharing in group discussions
Establishing the Tone
There are two predictable times when how a group is handled will be fundamental for affecting the quality and tone of the discussion. The first such time is at the very start of the discussion.The most important thing is to establish that everyone has a right to speak, and that they are, in fact, expected to contribute. This will only work, of course, if group members feel that they can trust one another, and that their ideas will be welcomed. Here are some hints for how to start.
If possible, have people sit in a circle, or at least facing one another. If you are in a setting where this is not possible (for example, a classroom where the seats are bolted to the floor), then the facilitator of the discussion can lend an inclusive element by walking among the members when he or she is speaking.
If group members do not know each other, then ‘introduction’ exercises might be used. Members of the group can introduce themselves, or members can be asked to interview another person and then ‘present’ them to the group. Introductions can be more fun if people are asked to share such things as their favorite hobby, the animal they consider themselves most like, and so on.
The facilitator can de-emphasize his or her own role and emphasizing that of the group members by beginning the discussion with open-ended questions. As participants offer their views, the facilitator can encourage group members to respond to each other (and not to the facilitator) by asking questions like: “What does everyone else think?” or “Is there anyone else who agrees?” “Anyone else who disagrees?” — These kinds of questions will encourage members of the group to speak with each other, and also reinforce the idea that it is alright if people disagree with one another.
Sometimes it is a good idea to establish ‘ground rules’ for discussion. This can be especially important when the group members are children. If the students are old enough, they can even help you establish the ground rules. You could ask them to think about what should be the rules for discussion so that everyone is encouraged to speak. Here are some ideas for some rules:
Everyone should listen respectfully to the other (even if they disagree).
The person who is speaking should not be interrupted.
No more than one person should speak at the same time.
No one’s ideas should be made fun of.
If you disagree with someone, disagree with their ideas, but don’t attack the person.
Try to understand the others, as much as you hope they try to understand you.
