DOs and DONTs in GD

Do

·         Speak pleasantly and politely to the group.

·         Respect the contribution of every speaker.

·         Remember that a discussion is not an argument. Learn to disagree politely.

·         Think about your contribution before you speak. How best can you answer the question/ contribute to the topic?

·         Try to stick to the discussion topic. Don't introduce irrelevant information.

·         Be aware of your body language when you are speaking.

·         Agree with and acknowledge what you find interesting.

Don't

·         Lose your temper. A discussion is not an argument.

·         Shout. Use a moderate tone and medium pitch.

·         Use too many gestures when you speak. Gestures like finger pointing and table thumping can appear aggressive.

·         Dominate the discussion. Confident speakers should allow quieter students a chance to contribute.

·         Draw too much on personal experience or anecdote. Although some tutors encourage students to reflect on their own experience, remember not to generalise too much.

·         Interrupt. Wait for a speaker to finish what they are saying before you speak.