Advanced Training of Trainers - Pathfinder International

Specific Objective #6: Demonstrate the use of advanced
discussion techniques.
What is a Discussion?
A discussion is an exchange of ideas on a
topic of mutual concern, with or without
moderation by a leader. It can be totally
unstructured and spontaneous, or it can
be highly structured. Discussions can be
held in a large group, or the group can be
broken into smaller discussion groups.
Varying discussion techniques can
increase participation in lectures, increase
interest in the subject being taught, and
improve effectiveness of the presentation.
Some variations in discussion techniques
include:
Small Group Discussion
A small group discussion simply means
breaking a larger group into smaller
groups to discuss a topic. After some time
the larger group reconvenes to discuss the
results of their small group discussions.
There are many variations of small group
discussions. But, there are 3 very useful
techniques:
1. The “66” Discussion Technique
AdvAnced TrAining of TrAiners
CONTENT: METhOdOlOgy:
The “66” discussion technique is
a way of structuring small group
discussions. Divide Px into groups
of 6. (Groups could have different or
similar topics.) Identify one recorder.
Allow groups 6 minutes to talk about
the issue. Tell the group when there
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Lecturette (15 min.):
UNIT 4/OBJECTIVE #6
The trainer should:
N Define what is meant by a discussion.
N Distribute Px Handout 4.9: Discussion
Variations.
N Give a brief lecture on the different
types of discussion techniques that
can be used.
Group work (40 min.):
The trainer should:
N Divide the group into 2 smaller
groups. Give one group the
“fishbowl” and the other group
“definitions.”
N Give them 15 minutes to prepare to
demonstrate the technique, using a
subject of their choice.
N After 15 minutes, give each group 10
minutes to demonstrate the lecture
technique they were assigned.
N During presentations, ask Px to reflect
on the following:
o Was the discussion type used
appropriate for the subject
material?
o Did the discussion type enhance
the presentation or make it
confusing or cumbersome?
o What suggestions do you have to
increase the effectiveness of the
4.9