Course title: Communication Skills and Personality Development

Course code: UEXT 105

Lecture no: 09
Lecture topic: Group Discussion
Prepared by: Bhagirath Das, Scientist (Agricultural Extension)

A group discussion refers to the exchange of ideas and thoughts by two or more people on a
selected topic to arrive at a deeper understanding or solution.
Purpose:
1. Encourage diverse viewpoints.
2. Develop critical thinking and communication skills.
3. Foster collaborative problem-solving.
4. Facilitate decision-making.
5. To entertain
6. To hear and discuss a report
7. To form attitudes
8. To release tensions

The GD Process
1. Introduction: The topic is presented, and participants may be given some preparation
time.
2. Initiation: A participant starts the discussion, often by introducing the main points or
posing questions.
3. Idea Exchange: Participants take turns sharing their perspectives, building upon or
challenging each other's ideas.
4. Summarization: A group member (or facilitator) summarizes the key points discussed.
Benefits of Participating in GDs
1. Develops communication skills: Expressing ideas clearly, actively listening, and
responding thoughtfully.
2. Enhances critical thinking: Analyzes information, forms arguments, and considers
different viewpoints.
3. Promotes teamwork: Collaborates with others, respects diverse opinions, and works
towards a common goal.
4. Boosts confidence: Public speaking practice in a supportive environment.

Page | 1
Types of Group Discussion
1. Seminar: A seminar is one of the group discussion methods where a different aspect of a
particular subject is discussed in a logical sequence under the guidance of experts and experienced
professionals. The duration of a seminar may be 2-3 days, and a specific time is allowed for
different speakers or experts. The purpose of the seminar is to pool the expertise of different
professionals and come up with conclusions and concrete recommendations to solve the problems
to which ready answers are not available or improve the existing situation. A seminar may have
two or more plenary sessions.
2. Conference: Conference is a large event for a large gathering of hundreds of even thousands of
people, to engage in a discussion with the aim of accomplishing a limited task within a limited
period of time. Conferences may involve complex social programmes, exhibitions and displays.
The words 'convention' and 'congress' are used with as much the same meaning.
3. Workshop: A workshop refers to the assembly of interested and select group of people to learn
and practice specific skills under experienced professional guidance. Emphasis is given to the
acquisition of proficiency of every member who participates in the workshop. A mix of theory and
practice is provided in a workshop situation. It may last from one day to several weeks.
4. Symposium: Symposium is a gathering of experts (2-5) who present their findings or ideas on
a specific sub-topic related to a major subject. Each speaker under this method is given specified
time and discussion among speakers or audience is not a common feature. The output of the
symposium may result in the publication of edited papers presented by the experts.
5. Syndicate: A syndicate is a group of people (8-10 in number) assigned with the task of
investigating a particular problem or topic and finding out the solution. The activities of a syndicate
are coordinated through a chairperson and a secretary. The entire group works on its own through
collection, of data, discussion with relevant people and consultation of literature. The findings of
the study including recommendation are presented before the entire group along with the main
report.
6. Panel Discussion: A Panel discussion is an effective method for discussion of any topic by a
panel of 3-5 experts representing different areas of the same subject.
7. Colloquy: A modified panel discussion method in which there is good degree of audience
participation.
8. Buzz sessions (Phillip 66 format): With large groups when there is limited time for discussion,
the audience may be divided into smaller units for a short period. This is called ‘buzz session’ or
‘huddle system’ or ‘Phillips 66’. Groups of 6 to 8 people get together after receiving instructions
to discuss a specific issue assigned. The secretary of each small group will report the findings or
questions to the entire audience when they are reassembled.

Page | 2
9. Brainstorming: Brainstorming is a group-based (under 20) creativity technique designed to
encourage lateral thinking around a stated question or problem. Brainstorming exercise will result
in the generation of many new ideas to solve a particular problem.
Advantages of group discussion methods
❖ It ensures participation of the trainees who have opportunities for contribution.
❖ It enhances the motivation and interest of trainees.
❖ It helps in pooling the knowledge and experience of different participants, which can
form a basis for effective learning by the entire group.
Disadvantages of group discussion methods
❖ Effective group discussion demands time and organizational skill.
❖ Improper group discussion may end up in unnecessary arguments and heart aches.
❖ Care should be taken to ensure the participation of ‘shy members’ and to Prevent the
domination by a few.
Types of Topics in Group Discussion
1. Factual Topics: Based on facts, data, and real-world information.
Purpose: Assess knowledge and understanding of specific subjects.
Examples: "Impact of climate change on global agriculture."
2. Controversial Topics: Involve issues with differing opinions and argumentative in
nature.
Purpose: Evaluate critical thinking, reasoning, and the ability to handle opposing views.
Examples: Should genetically modified organisms (GMOs) be used in agriculture?
3. Abstract Topics: Involve intangible concepts and ideas, often philosophical or
theoretical.
Purpose: Test lateral thinking & creativity, interpretation, and out-of-the-box thinking.
Examples: The future of farming in a digital world
4. Case Study Topics: Based on real-life scenarios or hypothetical situations requiring
analysis and problem-solving.
Purpose: Assess practical knowledge, analytical skills, and decision-making abilities.
Examples: "A dairy farm is experiencing a decline in milk production. Analyze the
possible causes and suggest solutions."

Page | 3
 5. Opinion-Based Topics: Seek participants’ viewpoints on specific issues or statements.
Purpose: Understand personal perspectives and the ability to articulate and defend
opinions.
Examples: Is natural farming feasible on a global scale?
Ensuring Effective Participation in GDs
✓ Preparation: Research the topic beforehand, gather relevant points, and form your own
opinions.
✓ Active Listening: Pay close attention to others, understand their viewpoints, and build
upon them.
✓ Clear Communication: Speak concisely, express your ideas logically, and support them
with evidence.
✓ Respectful Interaction: Acknowledge others' opinions, avoid interrupting, and maintain
a professional demeanor.
✓ Body Language: Maintain good eye contact, use appropriate gestures, and project
confidence.
Roles in a Structured Group Discussion
In a structured group discussion, each participant often assumes a specific role to ensure the
discussion is organized, productive, and achieves its goals. Here are the key roles typically found
in such discussions:
Moderator/Facilitator: Guides the discussion, ensuring it stays on track and that all participants
have the opportunity to contribute. They manage time, pose questions, and summarize key points.
Recorder/Note-Taker: Captures the main ideas, decisions, and action items discussed. Their notes
provide a written record of the discussion for future reference.
Timekeeper: Monitors the time allocated for each segment of the discussion, ensuring that the
group adheres to the schedule and covers all topics within the allotted time.
Presenter/Speaker: Introduces topics, presents key information, or delivers the main content of
the discussion. They often lead specific sections and provide expert insights.
Devil’s Advocate: Challenges ideas and assumptions by presenting alternative perspectives or
questioning the group's consensus. This role helps identify potential weaknesses in arguments.

Page | 4