The following are a few suggestions to help you participate in discussions as a study group member:
- Listen carefully to others.
- Help keep the discussion on track.
- Speak your mind freely but don’t monopolize the discussion.
- Help involve the more reticent people.
- Address your remarks to the group as a whole rather than to the moderator or other individuals.
- Don’t be afraid to engage in friendly debate, but don’t allow the discussion to become personal or acrimonious.
- The goal is always polite and reasoned discussion
Your responsibilities as an active participant in a study group also include a commitment to regular attendance. If you find that you are unable to attend because of illness or an emergency, you must inform the moderator. This is particularly important if you have been scheduled to make a presentation. Anyone who misses two sessions without explanation may be dropped from the group.