Get Them Talking

 Most teachers want good discussion; however all of us have been in groups where the teacher asks a question, pauses for a few seconds, then answers it himself/herself. We get the message loud and clear: “They don’t really want our contribution.”

How can you encourage good discussion and participation in your group?

 Begin each class by “priming the pump” with an open-ended question (see teacher-tips from October 20, 2007). If your class has ten or less, this can be done as one group; for larger groups, break into groups of three and take five minutes at the beginning of class to answer a question about the day’s lesson. These questions should be easily answered so that everyone can participate. Remember, open-ended questions have no right answer, and the goal is to get them talking and thinking about the topic for that day.

These suggestions should help you to promote good discussions:

• Verbally invite discussion, and then wait for someone to answer. If the silence is more than 30 seconds, re-phrase the question. Learn to be comfortable with a little silence. Some people need more time to think about their answers, and their comments are usually worth waiting for  
• Look at the group as you speak and be aware of your body language—have an open face and posture
• Look at each person as they speak and listen to their contribution. Ask questions, if necessary, to draw the speaker into a fuller explanation
• Verbally affirm each person who speaks 
• Involve the group further by asking, “What do others think?”, or “Does anyone have something to add?”
• If someone is dominating discussion, you need to say something like, “Let’s hear from someone who has not answered yet.” Never embarrass anyone publicly, even as a joke. If someone’s behavior is detrimental to group discussion, talk to the person privately later
• Before moving to another subject, summarize what has been said, trying to remember some element of each person’s contribution—use a white board, or take one-word notes if necessary
• Relax and enjoy yourself. You will be amazed at the insights different people bring if you can get them talking

Tags: Disciple Groups, sunday school, training

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