Posted by Group discussion skills are essential for teenagers, as it plays a vital role in academic, social, and professional settings. However, many teenagers struggle to participate effectively in group discussions. As a parent, you can help your teenager improve their group discussion skills by following these top ten tips provided by Dubai Indian school.
1. Encourage your teenager to prepare beforehand
Preparing for group discussions can boost your teenager’s confidence and improve their performance. Encourage your teenager to research the topic and make notes of the key points they want to discuss. They can also practice speaking in front of a mirror or with a friend to prepare for the discussion
For example, if the group discussion is on climate change, your teenager can read up on the topic, make notes of the causes, effects, and possible solutions, and practice presenting their ideas to a friend or family member.
2. Teach your teenager to listen actively
As per teachers of CBSE school in dubai, Active listening is an essential skill in group discussions. Encourage your teenager to pay attention to what others are saying and ask relevant questions. Active listening can help your teenager understand different perspectives, learn new ideas, and build rapport with others.
3. Teach your teenager to express themselves clearly
Clear communication and expression are crucial in group discussions. Encourage your teenager to speak confidently and clearly by using simple language and not rambling. Help your teenager practice expressing themselves by asking them to summarize their thoughts in a few sentences.
4. Encourage your teenager to participate actively
Participation is the key to success in group discussions. Encourage your teenager to speak up and contribute to the conversation. Ask them to share their thoughts, ask questions, and provide examples to support their views.
5. Teach your teenager to be respectful of others’ opinions
Respect is an essential element of group discussions. Teach your teenager to listen respectfully to others’ opinions, even if they disagree with them. Encourage them to respond politely and avoid using offensive language.
For example, ask your teenager to use sentences like, “I see your point, but I have a different perspective on this issue.”
6. Teach your teenager to be open-minded
Open-mindedness is crucial in group discussions. Encourage your teenager to consider different viewpoints, be willing to learn from others, and avoid being defensive. Help them understand that there is no single right or wrong answer.
For eg:- Using sentences like “I hadn’t thought of it that way before. Thank you for sharing your perspective.” can make the other participants feel good and it also makes them feel that you consider their perspective by being open-minded.
7. Teach your teenager to stay on topic
Staying on topic is essential to ensure that group discussions are productive. Encourage your teenager to avoid digressing and to focus on the topic at hand. TAsk them to be on track by summarizing the key points made by others.
8. Encourage your teenager to take turns while speaking
Taking turns during the discussion is essential to ensure that everyone has an opportunity to contribute to the session. Ask them to avoid interrupting others and use sentences like “May I add to that point?”
9. Encourage your teenager to be confident and humble
Teachers of CBSE schools in dubai stress more on being humble during Group discussions. Confidence is essential in group discussions, but being humble and admitting when they don’t know something is the right attitude. Encourage them to ask questions when they need clarification and to admit when they are unsure of something.
10. Teach your teenager to be aware of nonverbal communication
Nonverbal communication plays a crucial role in group discussions. Encourage your teenager to pay attention to their body language, tone of voice, and facial expressions. Ask them to maintain eye contact, avoid fidgeting, and use a confident and respectful tone of voice.
For instance, ask them to avoid crossing their arms or legs, which can signal defensiveness.
In conclusion
Dubai Indian school considers Group discussion as an essential skill for teenagers to develop, as it prepares them for their future careers. As a parent, you play a critical role in developing these skills in your teenager, so encourage them by providing continuous support whenever needed and help them in becoming confident and effective communicators.