May

24

Five Strategies for Effective Discussions

May 24, 2007 |

Matthew Anderson at Mere Orthodoxy suggests five strategies for setting clear expectations for a discussion. While he’s focused more on students, many of the suggestions apply to adult small groups as well. He recommends:

1. Praise good things liberally.

2. Tell people what the expectations are.

3. Be appropriately stern with people who “act out of line.”

4. Ask students why they aren’t having a discussion.

5. Remind discussants constantly of the expectations.

I strongly agree with numbers 1 and 2. Affirmation goes a long way in creating a healthy group atmosphere. And as I’ve mentioned before, I use a lesson plan (available here) to let people know where the discussion is going. This is essential if Rhonda Rabbit is in your group. You’ve got to stay on track, and letting people know in advance which track you’re on will help a lot.

However, I’m not sure I’d use the word “stern,” even with people who are acting out of line. These are the challenging people, and one remedy won’t fit all of them. Some may need a bit of sternness after loving discussion has failed, but this will be the exception. Most people will respond favorably to gentle encouragement and direction. Many simply need someone to reflect back to them how their words or behaviors are affecting others.

I’ve used a variation of #4 with at least one group when it was clear that they wanted me to spoon-feed them. Once I made my expectations for discussion and participation clear, the group dynamics changed as members took ownership in the group.

With adults, I’m not sure that you need to remind them “constantly.” That could get a little old. But from time to time it doesn’t hurt to refresh the expectations and also to seek their opinions. How are they enjoying the group? What are they getting out of it? What would make it better?

Leading a discussion is seldom easy. I appreciate what Matt says in the beginning of his article, that “most people, by and large, aren’t used to having discussions.” Given that fact, we have the privilege of equipping them and creating a safe environment for them to process their thoughts and opinions in the light of Scripture.


Comments

3 Comments so far

  1. Sensbachtal on March 17, 2008 8:37 pm

    Just wanted to say Hello to everyone.
    Much to read and learn here, I’m sure I will enjoy !

  2. patsikora on March 18, 2008 3:13 pm

    Welcome, Sensbachtai. Hope you like what you see. Give me some feedback.

  3. Paul on April 14, 2008 9:56 am

    I would like to thank you for the great article. It is good to read such interesting article, thanks for sharing it.
    Have a nice day and continue working in the same way! ;)

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