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Page 3 of 11 Types of GDs GDs can be topic-based or case-based.
Topic based Gds can be classified into three types
Factual Topics Factual topics are about practical things, which an ordinary person is aware of in his day-to-day life. Typically these are about socio-economic topics. These can be current, i.e. they may have been in the news lately, or could be unbound by time. A factual topic for discussion gives a candidate a chance to prove that he is aware of and sensitive to his environment. E.g. The education policy of India, Tourism in India, State of the aged in the nation.
Controversial Topics Controversial topics are the ones that are argumentative in nature. They are meant to generate controversy. In GDs where these topics are given for discussion, the noise level is usually high, there may be tempers flying. The idea behind giving a topic like this is to see how much maturity the candidate is displaying by keeping his temper in check, by rationally and logically arguing his point of view without getting personal and emotional. E.g. Reservations should be removed, Women make better manager
Abstract Topics
Abstract topics are about intangible things. These topics are not given often for discussion, but their possibility cannot be ruled out. These topics test your lateral thinking and creativity.
E.g. A is an alphabet, Twinkle twinkle little star, The number 10
Case-based Gds Another variation is the use of a case instead of a topic. The case study tries to simulate a real-life situation. Information about the situation will be given to you and you would be asked as a group to resolve the situation. In the case study there are no incorrect answers or perfect solutions. The objective in the case study is to get you to think about the situation from various angles. Reasons for having a GD. - It helps you to understand a subject more deeply.
- It improves your ability to think critically.
- It helps in solving a particular problem.
- It helps the group to make a particular decision.
- It gives you the chance to hear other students' ideas.
- It improves your listening skills.
- It increases your confidence in speaking.
- It can change your attitudes.
Strategies for Improving GD Skills for Tutorials & Seminars
Asking questions and joining in discussions are important skills for university study. If you find it difficult to speak or ask questions in tutorials, try the following strategies.
Observe Attend as many seminars and tutorials as possible and notice what other students do. Ask yourself: - How do other students make critical comments?
- How do they ask questions?
- How do they disagree with or support arguments?
- What special phrases do they use to show politeness even when they are voicing disagreement?
- How do they signal to interrupt, ask a question or make a point?
Practice Start practicing your discussion skills in an informal setting or with a small group. Start with asking questions of fellow students. Ask them about the course material. Ask for their opinions. Ask for information or ask for help.
Participate Take every opportunity to take part in social/informal discussions as well as more structured/formal discussion. Start by making small contributions to tutorial discussions; prepare a question to ask, or agree with another speaker's remarks.
Leading a Discussion You may be in a seminar group that requires you to lead a group discussion, or lead a discussion after an oral presentation. You can demonstrate leadership by: - Introducing yourself and the members of the group
- Stating the purpose of the discussion
- Inviting quiet group members to speak
- Being objective
- Summarizing the discussion
Chairing a Group Discussion When chairing a discussion group you must communicate in a positive way to assist the speakers in accomplishing their objective. There are at least four leadership skills you can use to influence other people positively and help your group achieve its purpose. These skills include: - Introducing the topic and purpose of the discussion,
- Making sure all members have approximately the same time, (i.e. no one dominates the discussion by taking too much time)
- Thanking group members for their contribution
- Being objective in summarizing the group's discussion and achievements.
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Group Discussions 
