Group Discussion / Debate

Group Discussion

A group discussion is an interesting activity where a group of people discuss about a topic. It is sharing of our opinion and known facts with the group.

Purpose of a group discussion.

Group discussion is a smart way of recruitment. It saves time and gives more information about the individuals.
The factors that are evaluated.

 Awareness.
 Communication skills.
 Effective communication.
 Interpersonal skills.
 Leadership skills.
 Team play.

Summing up the above --- attitude.

How to participate in a group discussion.

 Clarify whether all are comfortable with the given topic.
 Can discuss both positive and negative corners of the topic.
 Understand the topic properly.
 Have a better knowledge about the topic.
 Start the discussion rather than waiting for others to start.
 Use simple language.
 Smile while you speak.
 Give worthy points.
 Get involved in the topic.
 Use your hands while speak.
 Don’t argue.
 Don’t give only negative points. (agree the facts)
 Don’t defend but ask questions.
 Listen while others speak. (Nod your head)
 Don’t interrupt while others speak.
 Give enough time for others.
 Ask others to speak.
 Ask the participants who sit back.
 Help others while they find difficulty.
 Resolve the controversies.
 Work towards a common (agreeable) conclusion.
 Be time conscious.
 Try to conclude with in the given time.

Debate

Unlike a group discussion in this activity there will be two teams. One team will speak about only the positive points while other will speak only negative. It is purely an argument.

Purpose of a debate.
Debate is a smart way of evaluating the right candidate for a highly responsible job. The participant’s behaviour in a debate reveals his attitude.

The factors that are evaluated.

 Communication skills.
 Effective communication.
 Leadership skills.
 Situation handling.
 Patience.
 Stick ability.


The guide lines for a debate are also the same as of a group discussion but with some difference.
 Never agree the opponent’s points.
 Stick to your topic even if you personally disagree.
 Listen even when your opponent speaks.
 Never ever shout.
 Be patient while your opponent speaks.
 Never defend blindly.
 Accompany your points with concrete grounds.
 Smile while you speak.
 Don’t smile while others speak seriously.
 Don’t point out or blame opponent.

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