Role of the Discussion Leader
Here are a few suggestions for bringing out a range of opinions, exploring the topic thoroughly, and encouraging a rich and lively discussion. If you are selected as the discussion leader, remember that a good leader:

• Serves as a facilitator rather than a lecturer.
• Remains impartial, shows respect for all opinions, and does not use the position to influence the outcome of the discussion.
• Creates opportunities for everyone to speak.
• Helps participants look for common ground, but avoids pushing for a consensus.
• Keeps the conversation moving and on track by occasionally summarizing points, and bringing the discussion back to the topic if it wanders unproductively.
• Raises views that have not been considered by the group.
• Asks questions that challenge assumptions.
• Deals effectively with any problems that arise and, if a ground rule is broken, asks the group to help re-establish the rules.

Keeping the Conversation Going
Each conversation will create its own dynamic. It is important that the discussion leader be aware of the opportunities to probe or extend discussion of a particularly stimulating topic, or to take the conversation in alternative directions when that is not the case.

Here are some general questions that might help keep the ball rolling once you've started. Feel free to adapt them to the particular topics and dynamics of your conversation.

• What are the advantages and disadvantages of looking at the issue that way?
• What seems to be the key issue here?
• Would someone like to give another view?
• What other aspects of the issue should we be aware of?
• What do you find convincing about that viewpoint?
• Has anyone had a personal experience in dealing with this issue?
• What do you think people who hold that opinion care deeply about?
• Are there any points on which most of us would agree?
• Could you tell us the reasons behind your opinion?

As the participants become more comfortable, the discussion leader might ask them to share personal experiences. Make sure, however, that personal stories are on point with the topic and issues being discussed.

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. Ask participants to comment on the fact or issue in question.

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."