Scribd
Upload
1 views

lesson5

This document outlines essential skills for participating in academic discussions, emphasizing active listening, expressing opinions, asking questions, building on others' ideas, and disagreeing politely. It provides techniques for effective communication, such as maintaining eye contact, using supportive phrases, and acknowledging differing viewpoints. The chapter highlights the importance of respectful engagement and collaboration in enhancing understanding and problem-solving.

Uploaded by

aylin.queen20
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
1 views

lesson5

This document outlines essential skills for participating in academic discussions, emphasizing active listening, expressing opinions, asking questions, building on others' ideas, and disagreeing politely. It provides techniques for effective communication, such as maintaining eye contact, using supportive phrases, and acknowledging differing viewpoints. The chapter highlights the importance of respectful engagement and collaboration in enhancing understanding and problem-solving.

Uploaded by

aylin.queen20
Copyright
© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
Available Formats
Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd
You are on page 1/ 10

Participating

in
Discussions

Lesson 5
Table of Content
Introduction
1. Active listening in
discussions
2. Expressing Opinions
3. Asking Questions
4. Building on Others’ Ideas
5. Disagreeing Politely
Introduction

Participating in discussions and engaging in academic debates are


cornerstones of advanced oral communication. These skills not only
enhance your ability to articulate thoughts and arguments effectively
but also improve your critical thinking, active listening, and ability to
engage constructively with diverse perspectives. This chapter delves into
the techniques and strategies necessary to excel in academic discussions
and debates.
The Art of Participating in Discussions
• Discussions are an
integral part of academic
and professional
environments. They allow
for the exchange of ideas,
promote collaborative
problem-solving, and
deepen understanding of
complex topics. Effective
participation in
discussions requires a
blend of active listening,
clear expression, and
respectful engagement.
1. Active Listening
Active listening is more than just hearing words; it involves fully concentrating, understanding, and
thoughtfully responding to what is being said. It is a vital component of effective communication.

• Techniques:
o Maintain eye contact: This shows that you are focused and engaged.
o Nod and use affirmative gestures: Simple gestures like nodding or saying "I
see" can encourage the speaker and show that you are following along.
o Avoid interruptions: Allow the speaker to finish their thoughts before
responding.
o Summarize or paraphrase: Restate key points to confirm your understanding
and show the speaker that you have been listening attentively. For example,
"What I hear you saying is..."
2. Expressing Opinions
Being able to express your opinions clearly and respectfully is crucial in discussions. It not
only helps convey your perspective but also encourages a healthy exchange of ideas.

• Techniques:

o Use introductory phrases: Start with phrases like "In my opinion," "I believe that,"
or "From my perspective" to clearly indicate that you are sharing a personal view.

o Support your opinions: Use evidence, examples, or personal experiences to back


up your statements. This makes your argument more convincing and credible.

o Stay respectful: Acknowledge differing viewpoints and express your opinions


without belittling others. Phrases like "I respect your point, but I think..." can be
very effective.
• Types of Questions:
• Clarification Questions: Used
3. Asking to ensure understanding. For
Question instance, "Can you explain what
you mean by...?"
• Follow-up Questions: Build on
the speaker's previous points.
• Asking questions is a For example, "Can you expand
powerful tool in on that idea?"
discussions. It can • Probing Questions: Challenge
clarify uncertainties, assumptions and encourage
deepen understanding, deeper thinking. For instance,
and stimulate further "What evidence supports that
conversation. claim?"
4. Building Others’ Ideas
• Constructive discussions involve building on
the ideas of others. This collaborative
approach can lead to more robust and
innovative solutions.

• Techniques:
• Acknowledge previous points:
Reference what others have said to show
that you are listening and value their
contributions. For example, "I agree with
what [Name] mentioned, and I’d like to
add..."
• Extend ideas: Introduce new insights or
perspectives that complement the initial
point.
5. Disagreeing Politely
Techniques
Disagreement is a natural part of
discussions, especially in academic
settings. However, it is important to • use polite language: Start
with phrases like "I see your
disagree in a manner that is respectful point, but I think..." or "That’s
and constructive. an interesting perspective,
however..."
• Provide reasons: Clearly
state why you disagree and
support your viewpoint with
evidence.
• Maintain a calm tone: Avoid
getting emotional or defensive.
Keep the focus on the issue,
not the person.
Thank you
“Discussion is an
exchange of knowledge;
an argument an
exchange of ignorance.”
Robert Quillen

You might also like