SKBE2113 Week 5

9/11/2020
GROUP DISCUSSION
 A group, in the context of
organizational communication, is defined as a
collection of individuals who interact with each
other, accept expectations and obligations as
members of the group and share a common identity.

What is A discussion among a group of people

group Consists of 8-10 members (usually), will

discussion? express views freely and frankly on a
certain topic

Within a time limit of 20-30 minutes

 to reach a
solution on
an issue of
concern

Purpose
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 Characteristics of Group Discussions
Interface: A basic feature of group
discussions is the interaction among the
various members of the group. They see,
hear and communicate with each other
orally by paying attention to each other.
Interpersonal Attraction: Another
characteristic feature of a group discussion
is interpersonal attraction
Leader and Members: Group discussions
are effective only when there is a group of
members and a leader. The leader has to
Participation: The effectiveness and
summarize facts and information, integrate
efficiency of a group discussion depend, to
them, stimulate thinking and agree to a
a large extent, upon the active participation
unanimous solution of the problem. The
of the members.
members of the group become actively
related to each other in their respective
roles.
Conflict: A conflict is a difference or
Pressure to Conform: In a group discussion,
disagreement among the members of the
there is always an element of pressure to
group, which often arise during
conform to norms.
deliberations and discussions.
 It provides a deeper understanding of the subject

It improves the ability to think critically.

Advantages It provides different approaches to solving a problem.

of Group It helps the group in taking a decision.

Discussions It gives an opportunity to hear the opinions of other persons.

It enables a participant to put across his/her viewpoint.

It enhances confidence in speaking.

It can change your opinion and show you things from a different
perspective.
 • Be Assertive
• A patient listener
Important • Right language
Points in • Be analytical and fact-oriented
Group • Accept someone’s point of view
• Praise the argument
Discussions • Accept contradicting views
• Express arguments with facts
 • Tip 1: Pay attention to your body language
•Tip 2: Be courteous with fellow speakers
• Tip 3: Be confident and keep adding 'good' points
•Tip 4: Ensure that your words make sense
• Tip 5: Don’t be afraid to start
•Tip 6: Use supporting statistics and examples
GROUP • Tip 7: Participate in mock GDs beforehand
• Tip 8: Brush up your GK
DISCUSSION • Tip 9: Follow your heart
•Tip 10: Stay updated at all times

Tips • Tip 11 : Acquire these crucial group discussion skills-

teamwork skills, listening skills, discussion ability, subject
knowledge & communication
•Tip 12: Follow these group discussion rules- come
prepared, note down names of participants, maintain a firm
posture, take charge of the discussion, do not get emotional
DOs in Group
Discussions
• Modulate the volume, pitch and tone
• Be considerate to the feelings of
others
• Try to get your turn
• Be an active and dynamic participant
by listening
• Talk with confidence and self-
assurance
• Appropriate to the issue
• Make original points and support
them by substantial reasoning
• Make only accurate statements
DON’Ts during
Group
Discussions
• Being shy/nervous/keeping isolated
from group discussions
• Interrupting another participant
before his arguments are over
• Making fun of any participant
• Speak in favor
• Change opinion at the last minute
• Don’t engage yourself in sub-group
conversation
• Don’t repeat and use irrelevant
materials