What is a Group Discussion

 What is a Group Discussion

A group discussion refers to a group of persons brought together to express their opinion and exchange their ideas on the allocated subject. Group discussion as it is popularly known, assesses the personality of the man. Group Discussion also assesses general behavioural traits such as such listening skills, social skills, team skills, problem solving skills, and presence of mind.  Though Group Discussion involves team work, it also projects an individual's personality prominently.

A group usually consists of 6 to 12 members.  They are given a topic and a few minutes to prepare.  And all are called to begin the discussion.  The duration of the Group Discussion varies from institute to institute or organization to organization.  For each candidate an assessor may be assigned.  Usually, an assessor assesses two to the candidates and they are trained to observe and assess the group and group members behaviour against the job a person has applied for.  They will be watching every movement throughout the discussion, at the end rating is given.  A group discussion therefore, gives the employer an opportunity to assess and observe a person’s behaviour in action.  The theme or task given is often a reflection of what is required in the actual job.

Importance of Group Discussion

• For recruitment process: When a large number of candidates are present, Group Discussions are held for assessing skills and eliminating candidates.

• For brainstorming: The purpose here is to elicit opinions or views. Group discussions are held so that a large number of people can express their opinions and hear the ideas of others.  This leads to the generation of a large number of ideas in a short time.

• As part of problem solving and decision making: Group Discussions can be held to debate different opinions, discuss the pros and cons of each, and arrive at a suitable decision.

• For reaching a consensus: Group discussion can help participants listen to the opinions of all concerned, convince those with differing points of view and arrive at mutually satisfying solutions.