Here in Bahay Aurora the staffs specifically the Social workers and the house parents were giving the kids a once a week Unit discussion. This content of a fairly controversial topic, such as ‘Friends are more important than family’ and asking the kids to decide whether they agree, disagree or have opinion, making notes on their main arguments to support their viewpoint. Many topics were coming on to talk to and it depends on what kids want to talk about. Explain that for this discussion, the aim is to keep their inner emotions ventilated as far as possible. We as facilitators of this activity monitor and give feedback on these areas.
One of the most important things for this skill is for the kids of Bahay Aurora is to learn when it is and isn’t appropriate to interrupt and how to do it. Very often kids will talk over each other in an effort to get their point across and to listen.
Developing group discussion skills is useful for their everyday life as we regularly find ourselves having discussions amongst friends, family and colleagues. These may vary from very informal chats about day-to-day things, to more serious topics, for example a discussion about a recent news story or a problem that needs to be solved. This kind of activity also offers an opportunity for extended speaking and listening practice by the children. Unit discussion practice and skill development is therefore useful for all these kids.
It is important to consider the different skills that are involved in participating in a group discussion and ensure that we do activities that address each of these. Additionally, structuring and varying the way that feedback is given will help the kids to identify areas for improvement.