Skip to main content

Forms of Group Discussion

Forms of Group Discussion

We will classify group discussions based on the following:
  • Method of conduct
  • Nature of topic

Based on the Method of Conduct

Bases on the method of conduct, group discussions can be further classified into the following:
(i) Structured Group Discussion: In this type of group discussion, the topic is given to the participants by the selectors and a time-frame is allotted to complete the discussion. This is the most commonly followed technique for a group discussion.
(ii) Unstructured Group Discussion: In unstructured group discussions, unlike in the case of structured group discussions, the candidates themselves decide the topic with mutual consent. This formal method of group discussions is rarely used.
(iii) Role Play: In this type of group discussion, the candidates are given specific roles to play in the backdrop of a given situation. Within the framework of their role, the participants have to solve the problems inherent in the situation given to them.
(iv) Group Discussion with a Nominated Leader: Generally, no-one is nominated as leader of a group discussion and all participants are treated as equal. But in this type of a group discussion, a person is nominated as a facilitator or a leader of the group. He may summarize the discussion or solutions discussed at the end of the group discussion. Sometimes the leader is nominated by the group members themselves.

Based on Nature of the Topic

Group discussions can also be categorized based on the topic allotted for the discussion to the participants. There are three kinds of topics-controversial topics, abstract topics and case study topics.
(i) Controversial Topics: These are topics which are controversial and which have the potential to generate an argument. Such topics generally make the discussion lively as arguments and counter arguments are presented. This gives the evaluators more opportunities to evaluate the candidates.
Examples of such topics include ‘Should the examination system be scrapped’ or ‘How ethical is cloning?’.
(ii) Abstract Topics: There is a growing trend of assigning abstract topics, that is, topics which are vague or unclear. These topics enable the evaluators to evaluate the creative ability of the candidates. Every candidate can have his own interpretation of the topic. Some such topics are ‘Zero’, ‘One and one make eleven’.
(iii)  Case Study Topics: Here, a situation is provided to the participants which may depict a problem faced by the organization or the managers. Participants need to analyze the situation and think of various alternatives to solve the problem. This kind of a group discussion tests the ability of the candidate to think of solutions keeping the situational factors and constraints in mind.
Labels:

Popular posts from this blog

“The Eyes are not here” by Ruskin Bond - 60 MCQ, 30 single line question and 10 Long question

  1. The story The Eyes Have It is written by — (a) APJ Abdul Kalam. (b) Langston Hughes. (c) Ruskin Bond. (d) Leo Tolstoy. 2. The narrator's first co-passenger was a/an — (a) young boy. (b) old lady. (c) young girl.  (d) child. 3. The narrator was alone in the train compartment up to — (a) Rohana. (b) Dehra. (c) Saharanpur. (d) Mussoorie. 4. The couple who saw the girl off were probably —  (a) her parents.  (b) uncle and aunt. (c) grandfather and grandmother. (d) friends. 5. The couple who saw the girl off seemed very anxious about her —  (a) health. (b) destination. (c) comfort. (d) blindness. 6. At that time the narrator was — (a) completely blind. (b) partly blind. (c) seriously ill. (d) suffering from fever. 7. The girl in the story The Eyes Have It was wearing — (a) slippers. (b) shoes. (c) a skirt. (d) a sweater. 8. The first question that the narrator asked the girl was If she was all the way to —  (a) Rohana. (b) Saharanpur. (c) Deh...
Read more

Objectives of Verbal Communication:

  Objectives of Verbal Communication: Verbal communication is a crucial aspect of human interaction. It involves the use of spoken or written words to convey messages, information, and ideas. The objectives of verbal communication can vary depending on the context, but generally include: Information Sharing : One of the primary objectives of verbal communication is to convey information. This can range from sharing facts and data in a formal presentation to casual conversations about everyday matters. Clarity and Precision : Effective verbal communication aims to be clear and precise. It should eliminate any ambiguity or misunderstanding by using well-structured sentences and appropriate vocabulary. Understanding and Comprehension : The goal is not only to transmit information but to ensure that the message is understood by the recipient. This involves using language that the audience can relate to and comprehend. Persuasion and Influence : Verbal communication can be used to persu...
Read more

Advantages and disadvantages of non-verbal communication

There is a proverb “Actions speak louder than words.” In essence, this underscores the importance of non-verbal communication. Non-verbal communication is especially significant in intercultural situations. Researchers in communication suggest that many more feelings and intentions are sent and received non-verbally than verbally. Mehrabian and wiener following suggested that only 7 % of message is sent through words, with remaining 93% sent non-verbal expressions (depending on the author, verbal part goes up to 35%). It has multiple advantages or functions: ADVANTAGES OF NON-VERBAL COMMUNICATION: Complementary : Non-verbal cues complement a verbal message by adding to its meaning. You can pat someone you offended at the back as you say sorry to him or her. Easy presentation : Information can be easily presented in non-verbal communication through using visual, audio-visual and silent means of non-verbal communication. Substituting : Non-verbal message may substitute for the ve...
Read more