Guide for Discussion Leaders
IV. How to Lead Discussion
Group discussion can be organized in a number of different ways. The methods used in a given command will depend upon the local situation as judged by the individual who takes the lead in the planning. In one unit, small and in-formal discussion groups may be preferred, with little use of public speakers. In another, the popular American forum for a large audience may be desired.
Six common methods of discussion are described. It is recommended that the leader study in particular what is said about informal discussion. Even if one of the more formal discussion settings is chosen as suitable for use in a given command, many of the suggestions for conducting informal discussions will be found applicable to the panel, the forum, and the symposium methods.
