Page 138 - DENG401_Advance Communication Skills

Unit 6: Group Discussion

2. Implementing brainstorming methodology in simulations of real cases Notes
3. Trying various solutions in a case scenario
4. Developing teamwork, co-operation and creative problem solving in groups
5. Exercising creative techniques in a risk-free environment

In Team role-playing is two or more teams actively participate. For instance, a group of 10
people and one trainer are divided into two teams of five each. One person in each group acts out
the relevant role in the scenario. The other four act as coaches providing advice to their actor. To
make team role playing more effective, a secret conflict is introduced from the beginning. Upon
completion of the role playing, there would be a discussion on the role-play.

6.6 Summary

Group Discussion is a personality test which evaluates one's ability to interact in a group
on a given topic.

In a group discussion, a group usually consists of 8 to 10 candidates.
No one is nominated as a leader, coordinator or chairman to conduct the discussion.
Normally, 20 to 30 minutes are given as time to complete the discussion on a particular
topic.
Group Discussions are held with a particular purpose in mind.
There are certain qualities, which are looked for during a GD. Primary among them are
Leadership Quality, Knowledge of the Subject matter, Analytical Ability, Clarity of
Thought, Conviction and Flexibility.
There are certain strategies: Do's and Don'ts to be followed for an Effective Group
Discussion.
The desirable things include following a polite way of discussion, giving suitable examples,
showing positive body language.
The undesirable behaviour includes sitting cross legged or with arms folded, or other
negative gestures.
There are certain techniques which can be followed to politely enter a discussion, or to
express the non acceptance of a point or to put forward a point with conviction.

Listening attentively and with patience is very essential in a Group Discussions.
6.7 Keywords

GD: Group Discussion
KISS: Keep It Short and Simple

6.8 Self Assessment

Fill in the blanks:
1. The first quality that is looked for in a group discussion is ..................... quality.

2. Clarity of ..................... is important for a participant.

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