Facilitating Discussion (226D)

Overview:Group discussions are common, and this manual provides instruction in facilitating the most common types of discussions.

Project Speeches:
(Content garnered from member manuals and other Toastmaster clubs and may not be complete)

1) The Seminar Solution: Present an introductory short talk or brief lecture describing a theory, model, or information about a topic that will be discussed by a group following the presentation. Organize the information so that it is easy to understand and can be remembered. Orient the group to think about the specific goal of the discussion that follows. Use a buzz session discussion technique in delivering information leading to a solution to the problem.
Time: 20-30 minutes.

2) The Round Robin: Establish the meaning of a question with a discussion group. Using a problem-solving pattern, lead the participants in a brainstorming session. Screen the possible solutions and lead the group in deciding which action to take.
Time: 20-30 minutes.

3) Pilot a Panel: Select a problem for panel discussion. Select not less than three members in advance to speak on the panel. Define the common goals and the purpose of the panel. Acting as moderator, monitor the panel discussion to inform the audience.
Time: 30-40 minutes.

4) Make It Make-Believe (Role Playing): Understated what role-playing is and how to use it effectively in group communication. Select a problem involving human relations in which you may use the role-playing method to illustrate and explore the problem. Create a plot and characters relevant to the discussion problem and select a case from among the group members. Direct the role-play enactment, relate it to the discussion problem, and lead the group in arriving at a solution.
Time: 20-30 minutes.

5) The Workshop Leader: Building group unity, guide the workshop participants in an investigative discussion on the problem. Follow a problem solving pattern to arrive at a solution. Bring the group to an agreement before the discussion ends.
Time: 30-40 minutes.

 

Manual can be ordered through the Toastmasters International Shop