Mastering Group Discussion
Skills
Course Name – Communication Skills
Course Code – 24PCH-105
By - Hardik Choudhary
(24BBA10117)
Communication Skills- Activity 10 DISCOVER . LEARN . EMPOWER
What is a Group Discussion?
A group discussion (GD) is a structured
conversation where individuals discuss
and analyze a topic to share ideas and
perspectives.
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Why is it important?
● Group Discussions enhance learning by
promoting active learning and deeper
understanding of complex topics.
● Exposure to varied viewpoints broadens
horizons and challenges preconceived
notions.
● Honing discussion skills prepares people
for collaborative work environment
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Types of Group Discussions?
● Formal GDs: Structured discussions with a specific agenda, a
moderator, and clear guidelines for participation.
● Informal GDs: Casual and discussions, usually without strict rules,
allowing participants to express their ideas openly.
● Virtual GDs: Online discussions on platforms like Zoom, Teams,
etc, where participants join remotely, often requiring different
engagement techniques.
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Essential Skills for Group Discussions
• Articulation: Express ideas clearly
and concisely to ensure effective
communication.
• Active Listening: Pay attention to
others perspective and provide
constructive feedback.
• Creativity: Generate innovative
ideas and offer logical viewpoints.
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Preparation for a Group Discussion
• Research: Gather relevant information and
data related to your topic to provide a
foundation to your arguments.
• Organise Thoughts: Create an outline of
key points and supporting arguments for
clarity.
• Practice: Rehearse your ideas in order to
boost confidence and fluency
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Participation Tips
● Be Assertive and confident
● Stay Focused and Avoid
distractions
● Acknowledge and respect others
opinions
● Use examples to back your
claims
● Contribute actively without
dominating the conversation
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Roles in a Group Discussion
● Initiator: Opens the discussion and
introduces the topic
● Moderator: Ensures that the
discussion stays on topic.
● Contributor: Shares relevant
insights and information to enrich
the discussion.
● Scribe: Records the key points and
decisions made during the
discussion.
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Overcoming Common
Challenges
● Dominating Personalities: Encourage equal
participation by implementing times speaking
intervals.
● Distractions: Avoiding off topic conversations
during the discussion can help maintain topic
clarity
● Conflict Management: Address disagreements
respectfully and focus on finding common
ground or compromises
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Preventing these Challenges
from arising
• Set Ground Rules: Establish guidelines for respectful turn-taking and
open communication.
• Encourage Diverse Viewpoints: Actively invite different perspectives to
avoid groupthink.
• Clarify Ideas: Ask follow-up questions if something isn’t clear to ensure
mutual understanding.
• Stay Focused on Key Points: Gently steer the discussion back on track if
it starts to drift from the main topic.
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Do’s and Don'ts in a Group
Discussion
Do’s Don’ts
• Arrive prepared on time. • Avoid interrupting or
• Listen actively and show dominating the conversation
interest • Don’t ridicule others ideas
• Show respect for all opinions • Don’t steer the conversation
• Keep remarks relevant to the into unrelated topics
topic
• Contribute meaningfully to the
conservation
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Conclusion
Group discussions are not just about sharing ideas but also about
building relationships and understanding different varying
viewpoints. That’s why we must embrace GDs as opportunities for
learning and personal growth.
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Thank you!
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