Challenges Discussion Leaders May Face
If Discussion Falters...
Discussion leaders should make every effort to encourage participants
to express their ideas and viewpoints. When people are from different
backgrounds it is especially important that all feel free to say
what they think and to respond to the views of others.
If a Few People Dominate...
If one or two people want to do all the talking, try to involve
others in the discussion. Below are suggested comments/questions
to assist in moving the discussion forward.
- That's a good point, and I see that someone else wants to
respond to it.
- We've heard opinions from one perspective. Who would like
to express another view?
If the Discussion Wanders...
Discussion groups often get sidetracked or wander off the subject
into side issues or closely related topics. If this goes on for
too long, the discussion leader might try to get the discussion
back on track by making comments such as, "I wonder how this relates
to our major concern?" or "That's interesting, but I think we
need to get back to our main focus."
Handling Factual Errors...
Sometimes a participant might offer something as fact that you
know or strongly believe is in error. As a facilitator, it is
best not to directly contradict the participant. That does not
mean an error should go unchallenged. If experts are participating
in the conversation, ask them to comment. Or ask participants
to comment on the fact or issue in question. If there are more
sessions scheduled, suggest that participants do some research
on the subject before the next session.
Managing Heated Discussions...
In the event of a dispute or heated discussion, the discussion leader should respectfully remind participants that all points of view are to be accepted regardless of whether or not they agree with their own. A respectful reminder of the ground rules may also be appropriate. Under no circumstances should the discussion leader take sides. After providing respectful reminders, return to the questions noted above in the section "if a few people dominate…"
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