Facilitation of a Group Discussion
Taken from How to Lead a Small Group, by Neal McBride (You should check it out!)
The four main roles of a discussion leader...
1. Catalyst. Get it going. A catalyst can be defined as a person whose talk, enthusiasm, or energy causes others to be more enthusiastic or energetic (in their involvement).
2. Guide/enabler. Lead the discussion. And do your best to get everyone talking. Keep it on topic.
3.Clarifier. Keep it biblical- reword when it is needed.
4. Informer. Affirm contribution that is biblical and true.
Behavior for the discussion leader to avoid...
1. Being the answer person
2. Having the last word
3. Being a monopolizer
If you say you are leading a discussion then discipline yourself to do just that. Don't take it over; allow time for thought. And listen to people when they speak!
Good discussion questions are...
1. Clear
2. Relevant
3. Stimulating
The three types of questions...
1. Launching
Example: What are the seven reasons stated in this passage?
2. Understanding
Example: What is Paul's meaning in Ephesians 2:12 when he says, "Work out your salvation with fear and trembling?"
3. Applying
Example: What can we do as a group this week to demonstrate the love of God?
And now for some tips on questions to avoid...
Yes/No
Wordy Questions
Double Negatives
Compound Questions
Either/Or
And of course some useful suggestions...
Prepare
Remember your responsibility
Take baby steps
Silence is OK, let it be comfortable
Don't force people to answer
Help out the long winded people
My humble opinion about teaching and facilitating is that prayerful preparation, faith in God's ability to use you, and genuine love for your brothers and sister in Christ goes a long way towards the teacher of the year award.
Happy Thursday!
