group discussion case study topics

A Step-by-Step Guide To Case Discussion

By ashi jain.

CAT Champions 2024

Join InsideIIM GOLD

Webinars & Workshops

• Compare B-Schools

• Free CAT Course

Take Free Mock Tests

Upskill With AltUni

CAT Study Planner

Are you comfortable in Decision Making in a given situation How aptly you analyze the situation with a logical approach How much time do you take in arriving at a decision How good are you in taking the rightful course of action

Solved Example:

Hari, the only working member of the family has been working an organization for 25 years. His job required long standing hours. One day, while working, he lost his leg in an accident. The company paid for his medical reimbursement.

Since he was a hardworking employee; the company offered him another compensatory job. He refused by saying, ‘Once a Lion, always a Lion’. As an HR, what solution would you suggest?

Identification of the Problem:

Obvious: accident, refusal of job, only earning member, his attitude, and inability to do his current job Hidden: the reputation of the company at stake, the course of action might influence other employees

Action Plan:

As an HR, you are first expected to check the company records and find out how a similar case has been dealt with in the past. Second, you need to take cognizance of the track record of the employee highlighted by the keyword ‘hardworking’.

Given the situation at hand, he is deemed unfit for his current role. However, the problem arises because of his attitude towards the compensatory job. Hence, in such a case, counselling is required.

Here, three levels of Counselling is required: 1.   Ist level is with Hari 2.   IInd level of counselling is required with the Union Leader (if any) to keep the collective interest and the reputation of the company in mind 3.   IIIrd level of counselling is required with his family members as they constitute of the afflicted party

If the counselling does not work, one should also identify a contingency plan or Plan B. In this case, the Contingency Plan would be – hire someone from his family for a compensatory role.

Note that the following options are out of scope and should be avoided: 1.   Increase Hari’s salary so that he gives in and agrees to do the compensatory job 2.   Status Quo – do not bother as long as the Company is making a profit 3.   Replace Hari with someone else

1. Pinpoint the key issues to be solved and identify their cause and effects

2. Start broad and try to work through a range of issues methodically

3. Connect the facts and evidence and focus on the big picture

4. Discuss any trade-offs or implications of your proposed solution

5. Relate your conclusion back to the problem statement and make sure you have answered all the questions

1. Do not be anxious if you are not able to understand the situation well or unable to justify the problem. Read again, a little slowly, it will help you understand better.

2. Do not jump to conclusions; try to move systematically and gradually.

3. Do not panic if you are unable to analyze the situation. Listen carefully to others as the discussion starts, it will help you gauge the problem at hand.

All the best! Ace the GDPI season.

Related Tags

IIM Ahmedabad Selection Criteria Released for PGP 2025-2027 Batch: 65% weightage to CAT 2024 for Interview Shortlists. 

CAT 2024 Registration Deadline Extended till 20th September

IIM Bangalore Admission Criteria for 2025-2027 Batch Out: CAT to hold 55% weightage in Interview Selection

FT Masters in Management (MiM) Rankings 2024: SPJIMR Tops in Indian B Schools

IIM-Ahmedabad PGPX MBA Placements Report 2024

Mini Mock Test

Quants 10-CAT Champions 2

CAT 2022 DILR SLOT 3

LRDI 5 - CAT Champions 2

Quants 9-CAT Champions 2

Quants 8-CAT Champions 2

Quants 7-CAT Champions 2

Quants 6-CAT Champions 2

LRDI 10 - CAT Champions 2

LRDI 9 - CAT Champions 2

LRDI 8 - CAT Champions 2

LRDI 7 - CAT Champions 2

LRDI 6 - CAT Champions 2

LRDI 3- CAT Champions 2

LRDI 4 - CAT Champions 2

VARC-3 CAT Champions 2

Quants 3-CAT Champions 2

Quants 5-CAT Champions 2

VARC-10 CAT Champions 2

VARC-11 CAT Champions 2

VARC-9 CAT Champions 2

VARC-8 CAT Champions 2

VARC-7 CAT Champions 2

VARC-6 CAT Champions 2

VARC-5 CAT Champions 2

VARC-4 CAT Champions 2

Quants 2-CAT Champions 2

LRDI 2- CAT Champions 2

VARC-1 CAT Champions 2

Quants 1-CAT Champions 2

VARC-2 CAT Champions 2

Take Free Test Here

AIMCAT 2519 Live Solving By Shashank Prabhu, Founder - Point99 (CAT 100%iler | Seasoned CAT Trainer)

By Team InsideIIM

How A Non-Engineer Went From 17%ile to 99+%ile In CAT

CAT 2023 Slot 1 DILR Breakdown ft.Dr.Shashank Prabhu || DILR Dangal Ep.5 || CAT DILR Preparation

I Made It To FMS Delhi With Gap Years ft.Shayari || 99.21%iler CAT 2023

Best 4 Months Strategy To Score 99+%ile in CAT 2024 ft.Pallav Goyal (IIM A)

Essential Resources For CAT 2024 & How Much Practice You Need for 99%ile?

CAT 2023 Slot 1 Reading Comprehension Breakdown by 99.9%iler ft. Karan Agrawal (FMS Delhi)

How to Eliminate Options in RC | CAT VARC Tricks to Score 99+ Percentile Ft. Gejo Sir, Career Launcher

SUBSCRIBE TO OUR NEWSLETTER

For a daily dose of the hottest, most insightful content created just for you! And don't worry - we won't spam you.

Who Are You?

Top B-Schools

InsideIIM Gold

InsideIIM.com is India's largest community of India's top talent that pursues or aspires to pursue a career in Management.

[email protected]

Follow Us Here

Konversations By InsideIIM

TestPrep By InsideIIM

• NMAT by GMAC
• Exam Syllabus
• Score Vs Percentile
• Exam Preparation
• Explainer Concepts
• Free Mock Tests
• RTI Data Analysis
• Selection Criteria
• CAT Toppers Interview
• Study Planner
• Admission Statistics
• Interview Experiences
• Explore B-Schools
• B-School Rankings
• Life In A B-School
• B-School Placements
• Certificate Programs
• Katalyst Programs

Placement Preparation

• Summer Placements Guide
• Final Placements Guide

Career Guide

• Career Explorer
• The Top 0.5% League
• Konversations Cafe
• The AltUni Career Show
• Employer Rankings
• Alumni Reports
• Salary Reports

Copyright 2024 - Kira9 Edumedia Pvt Ltd. All rights reserved.

MBA admission: How to crack case-based group discussions?

• By:Surbhi Jain
• Date: 2018-11-27 14:13:32

Case studies or caselets are now an integral part of admissions to the MBA. Often, candidates should analyze small files during a group discussion (GD), instead of general topics. The idea is to examine the candidate's point of view, logical approach, quick thinking, and his problem-solving attitude before finalizing his/her candidature for the MBA program. The caselets do not require any prior knowledge of the subject. It is considered an effective way of judging the management qualities of a candidate required for admission to the B-School.

Read More- Predict your Percentile/Score through CAT Percentile/ CAT Score Predictor 

Although the Top management institutes (IIMs) have suppressed the group discussions, various leading business schools still continue to conduct case-based GDs some of the institutes are- XLRI-Jamshedpur, SPJIMR, Mumbai and NMIMS, Mumbai, etc. So what happens in a caselet? Mentors will give 10 minutes to the candidates to read a case summary followed by 10 minutes to write whatever we understood after that there will be a group discussion of 20 minutes. Let us figure out more about GD-based case studies in management institutes:

A case study is all about analysis because everyone gives the same information and therefore starts from the same base.

The case study topics are mainly related to current affairs. Current socio-economic environment, government policies, innovations, global economic climate or socio-political debates prevalent in popular media. Learn about as many case study topics as possible.

The purpose of these case-based GDs is to judge the knowledge, communication skills, leadership qualities and the ability of the candidate to make logical arguments and convince the opposing party, qualities needed to be a good manager.

Read more- GD/PI Tips for MBA Colleges in India

Here are some tips for solving case-based group discussions:

Refer to the topics covered in the GDs of your target institute. You can collect this information online or from coaching institutes. Take note of the topics covered over the years, it is very likely that the topics will go in the same direction this year as well.

Read newspapers, journals, magazines and watch current affairs programs to find out what's going on around you. Case-based GDs typically focus on business and economic issues that affect the social and political climate. Read editorials and articles based on hot topics, so you can use them while making your point of view during GD.

Meet up with your friends who are also MBA aspirants, form a group and hold a case-based group discussion. Exchange ideas, observe and develop confidence.

  In case-based GDs, around five minutes are given to prepare, so use this time wisely. If the case is about a topic where the decision is to be made, quickly think of points to back your ‘to’ or ‘for’ stand and choose one. If the subject is such that a decision has already been made and the group has to decide whether it is right or wrong, re-choose aside after quickly weighing your points.

What should be the right approach?

Approach which can identify the crux of the problem, can logically analyze it and can suggest an alternate course of action to solve it, is the right approach.  Know the steps that will lead you to solve it

Step1:  Attentively read the caselet, following the important points Step2:  Understand the objectives of the organization Step3:  Get to the core of the problem and its causes  Step4:  Identify and focus on the obstacles and constraints of the issue in achieving the desired goals Step5:  Find out the alternatives, analyze them and pick out the relevant ones. Step6:  Filter all of the alternatives and choose the most appropriate one. Step7:  Frame the course of action to implement the decision

Read more- CAT Score vs CAT Predictor

A few don’ts for caselet exercises-

• Do not be anxious and hyper even if you are not able to fully understand the situation or unable to identify the problem at first. read again it a little slowly, it will help you better understand.
• Do not jump on the conclusions; try to move step by step.
• Do not panic if you are unable to find an appropriate solution. Your analytical skills, the logical process of identifying the problem and the moving towards its solution will also be evaluated.
• Do not be in a hurry to speak without arriving at some logical analysis and solution strategy. When you speak, be relevant and to the point.

For more details and guidance you can reach at 7772954321 | 8818886504 and write us at [email protected]

Related Blog

SNAP 2022 - Know about it All (SNAP 2022 Eligibility, Important dates, Exam Pattern, Syllabus, Admit Card, Application Fees)

SNAP 2022 - Know about it All! (SNAP 2022 Eligibility, Important dates, Exam Pattern, Syllabus, Admit Card, Application Fees)

CAT 2018 Important dates, fees, Procedure & Eligibility

CAT 2018 Important dates , Procedure & Eligibility   

Student login

Forgot password.

Colege login

College login.

Channel Partner Login

Join now for free

By clicking submit button, I agree to the terms of services and privacy policy .

Thanks for the registration, We have sent an email with verification link please verify your account.

And also please verify your mobile number enter otp here

Register here to get in touch with hundreds of colleges on our platform.

• News and Notifications
• Refund & Cancellation Policy
• Terms and conditions
• Privacy Policy
• College Predictor
• Best MBA Colleges in Delhi
• Best MBA Colleges In India

Have a Question

• +91 77729 54321
• [email protected]
• 24x7 Dedicated Custome Care Support -->

Head Office

405, Vibrant Twin Tower, Manorama Ganj, NH3, AB Road, Geeta Bhawan Square, Indore, Madhya Pradesh 452001

Phone: 964 444 0101 | 777 295 4321

Time: Mon-Sat:09:30AM - 06:30PM

Mumbai Office

Mumbai Office no. 303, Hari Om Plaza, M G Road, Near SGNP Main Gate, Sukurwadi, Borivali East, Mumbai, Maharashtra 400066

Phone: 771 881 7500 | 977 000 7700

© BookMyColleges.com. All Right Reserved. 2024

Stay Updated About All the Latest MBA News, Exams and B-schools.

You never know this might be what you have been looking for all around. get it now , exam details.

Group Discussion (GD) Topics

Table of Contents

Group discussion (GD) is a way to evaluate a person’s suitability for admission, scholarships , jobs, and other opportunities. It assesses an individual’s overall personality, including their thoughts, feelings, and behavior in a group setting. A topic is presented to the group members, and while they discuss it, a panel of judges observes them. Based on this observation, the judges evaluate the candidate’s intellectual, social, leadership, and communication skills.

Fill Out the Form for Expert Academic Guidance!

Please indicate your interest Live Classes Books Test Series Self Learning

Verify OTP Code (required)

I agree to the terms and conditions and privacy policy .

Fill complete details

Target Exam ---

Why is GD Important?

In today’s world, many universities, business schools, and companies require students and employees to work well in groups. A group discussion helps to identify a candidate’s strengths and weaknesses in working collaboratively as a leader or team member. It is a valuable tool for recruiters and admissions officers to make informed decisions.

What are the skills that are judged in a GD?

• Good Communication : How well you talk to others.
• Group Behavior : How easily you get along with others in the group.
• Open-Mindedness : How willing you are to listen to different ideas.
• Flexibility : How easily you adapt to others’ views.
• Leadership : How well you guide the group.
• Analytical Skills : How well you think critically.
• Problem-Solving : How well you solve problems.
• Time Management : How well you manage the discussion.
• Unbiased Ideas : How well you share your ideas without bias.
• Social Confidence : How confident you are in interacting with others.

Group Discussion Topics on Social Issues

Social issues are complex problems that affect individuals and society as a whole, requiring thoughtful discussions to find solutions.

Group Discussion Topics on Business and Economy

Business and economy are interconnected systems that shape our daily lives, requiring thoughtful discussions to understand their complexities.

Abstract Topics for Group Discussion

Abstract topics challenge our perspectives and encourage creative thinking, fostering engaging discussions that explore the complexities of life.

General Interest Group Discussion Topics

General interest topics cover a wide range of subjects that appeal to diverse audiences, fostering engaging and thought-provoking discussions.

Group Discussion Topics on Education

Education is a vital component of personal and societal growth, requiring thoughtful discussions to shape its future.

Group Discussion Topics on Indian Politics

Indian politics is a complex and dynamic system that shapes the country’s future, requiring thoughtful discussions to understand its intricacies.

Creative Group Discussion Topics

Creative group discussions foster innovative thinking, encouraging participants to explore new ideas and perspectives, leading to unique insights and solutions.

Group Discussion Topics on Case Studies

Case studies offer real-life examples of business and economic challenges, providing valuable insights for effective decision-making and problem-solving.

Group Discussion Topics on Sports

Sports play a significant role in our lives, fostering camaraderie, discipline, and a sense of accomplishment, making them an ideal topic for group discussions.

Group Discussion Topics on Environment and Agriculture

The environment and agriculture are intertwined systems that require thoughtful discussions to address pressing issues and ensure sustainable development.

Socio-Political Group Discussion Topics

Socio-political issues shape our society and govern our lives, requiring thoughtful discussions to understand their complexities and find solutions.

Socio-Cultural GD Topics

Socio-cultural issues shape our daily lives, influencing how we interact with each other and the world around us, requiring thoughtful discussions.

GD Topics on International Affairs

International affairs shape the world we live in, requiring thoughtful discussions to understand global complexities and their implications.

Management Related GD Topics

Effective management is crucial for organizational success, requiring thoughtful discussions to understand the complexities of leadership and decision-making.

Controversial Group Discussion Topics

Controversial topics spark intense debates, challenging perspectives and fostering critical thinking, essential for informed decision-making and personal growth.

Group Discussion FAQs

What is the best topic for group discussion.

The best topics for group discussions are ones that: Are relevant and interesting to the group Allow for multiple perspectives and opinions Have enough depth to sustain a thoughtful discussion Are not too narrow or too broad in scope Encourage active participation from everyone

What is a good group topic?

A good group discussion topic should be: Thought-provoking but not too controversial Open-ended with no single right answer Relatable to the group's background and interests Able to be discussed from multiple angles Engaging enough to keep the group interested

What is the trending topic in GD?

Some trending group discussion topics in 2024 include: The impact of AI and automation on jobs and society The future of remote work and the hybrid workplace Sustainability and the transition to clean energy Mental health awareness and reducing stigma Diversity, equity and inclusion in the workplace The role of social media in shaping public opinion Ethical considerations around emerging technologies

How to start a GD topic example?

Today, I'd like us to discuss the role of social media in shaping public opinion. With the rise of platforms like Twitter, Facebook and TikTok, people are getting more of their news and information from social media. Some argue this has led to the spread of misinformation, echo chambers and political polarization. Others say social media gives a voice to the voiceless and holds leaders accountable. What do you think - is social media a force for good or bad when it comes to public discourse and decision-making? I'd like to hear your thoughts on the pros and cons, and how you think social media is impacting society. Feel free to draw on current events or your own experiences. Let's start with a few minutes of individual reflection, then we'll open it up for group discussion. The key is to provide some context, frame the topic as an open question, and encourage everyone to share their perspective. Giving a few minutes for individual reflection first allows people to gather their thoughts before jumping into the group discussion.

Related content

Get access to free Mock Test and Master Class

Register to Get Free Mock Test and Study Material

Offer Ends in 5:00

Select your Course

Please select class.

Growth Tactics

Types of Group Discussion: Strategies for Effective Discussions

Jump To Section

Group discussion is a valuable tool for learning, collaboration, and fostering critical thinking skills. Whether you are a student preparing for an exam, an educator looking for ways to engage your students, or a leader trying to solve a problem, understanding the different types of group discussions, topics, and strategies is essential. In this blog post, we will explore the various types of group discussions, how to choose a suitable topic, and strategies for facilitating meaningful and productive discussions.

Understanding Group Discussion

Group discussions are a form of interactive communication that involves a small group of individuals sharing their thoughts, ideas, and opinions on a specific topic. These discussions can take place in various settings, such as classrooms, organizations, or professional settings, and can serve different purposes, such as problem-solving, decision-making, or brainstorming.

Types of Group Discussion

Group discussions offer a dynamic environment for sharing thoughts, ideas, and opinions. They can be beneficial for learning, collaboration, and developing critical thinking skills . Let’s explore three types of group discussions: case-based discussions, topic-based discussions, and structured group discussions.

1. Case-Based Discussions

In case-based discussions, participants analyze and discuss specific cases or scenarios. They evaluate possible solutions or approaches, which helps develop problem-solving and analytical skills. By actively engaging with real or hypothetical case studies, participants enhance their ability to think critically about complex situations.

2. Topic-Based Discussions

Topic-based discussions center around a specific subject or theme. Participants express their opinions, present arguments, and explore different viewpoints. These discussions improve communication skills and foster critical thinking as participants analyze and evaluate various perspectives on a given topic.

3. Structured Group Discussions

Structured group discussions follow predefined formats or rules. A moderator guides the discussion by posing questions and facilitating conversation. This format ensures active participation and constructive exchanges, providing a framework for focused and productive discussions.

By understanding the different types of group discussions, participants can choose the most suitable format for their goals and create an engaging and interactive environment for meaningful conversations.

Choosing a Suitable Topic

Selecting an appropriate topic is crucial for a successful group discussion. Consider the following factors when choosing a topic:

1. Relevance to the Participants

The topic should be relevant to the participants’ interests, experiences, or areas of study. This helps create a sense of engagement and encourages active participation.

2. Controversial and Thought-Provoking

Controversial topics or those that require critical thinking and analysis can spark lively and meaningful discussions. Avoid vague or overly simplistic topics that do not stimulate thoughtful discussion.

3. Current Affairs and Real-World Issues

Discussing current affairs and real-world issues helps participants develop an understanding of the socio-economic and political landscape. These topics encourage participants to think critically and evaluate different perspectives.

Strategies for Effective Group Discussions

To make group discussions productive and engaging, consider implementing the following strategies:

1. Establish Clear Ground Rules

Start by establishing clear guidelines and expectations for the discussion. These ground rules should emphasize the importance of active listening, respectful communication, and equal participation. By setting a foundation of mutual respect and inclusivity, you create a safe and open environment for all participants to contribute their ideas.

2. Encourage the Expression of Diverse Perspectives

Promote a culture that values and encourages diverse perspectives. Encourage participants to share their unique viewpoints, experiences, and ideas. By actively seeking and embracing different perspectives, you enrich the conversation and foster a deeper understanding of the topic at hand. Remember that diversity of thought leads to more innovative and creative solutions.

3. Foster Lateral Thinking and Problem-Solving

Encourage participants to think critically and approach problems from various angles. Foster an environment that values and promotes lateral thinking, which involves exploring unconventional or alternative solutions. Encourage participants to challenge assumptions and consider different perspectives to generate innovative ideas and solutions.

4. Provide Structured Discussion Prompts

Prepare a list of discussion prompts or questions in advance to guide the conversation. These prompts should cover various aspects of the topic and encourage participants to think critically and express their thoughts. Structured discussion prompts provide a framework and keep the conversation focused and productive. This helps ensure that all important aspects of the topic are explored.

5. Facilitate Active Participation

Actively engage all participants to facilitate their active participation in the discussion. Encourage quieter participants to contribute by directly asking for their input or by creating a supportive environment that encourages them to share their thoughts. By ensuring that everyone feels heard and valued, you create a space for meaningful and collaborative discussions.

By implementing these strategies, you can make your group discussions more effective, inclusive, and thought-provoking. These approaches promote critical thinking, enhance problem-solving skills, and allow for the exploration of multiple perspectives. Remember that an open and respectful environment is key to fostering successful group discussions.

Common Challenges in Group Discussions and How to Overcome Them

Group discussions can be an effective way to generate ideas, facilitate collaboration, and arrive at well-informed decisions. However, there are common challenges that can arise during group discussions. Here are some of these challenges and strategies to overcome them:

1. Dominant Personalities

Some participants may have dominant personalities that can overpower the conversation, making others feel unheard or overshadowed. To prevent dominance, set equal speaking opportunities for everyone. Encourage active listening to make sure everyone’s voice is heard. If someone is dominating the conversation, try direct questions to other participants and redirecting the conversation towards the quieter members.

2. Groupthink

Groupthink occurs when the desire for group harmony leads to conformity and a lack of critical thinking. To avoid it, make sure to encourage diverse opinions, ideas, and perspectives. Assign a designated devil’s advocate whose role is to challenge proposed ideas. Anonymous ideation sessions and setting the tone of every idea is welcome helps in the same.

3. Lack of Focus

Conversations may easily veer off-topic or lack a clear focus, making it difficult to achieve the intended goals. Keep the conversation focused by setting and reviewing an agenda periodically. Encourage participants to take constructive breaks that revitalize their focus. Use summarizing techniques throughout the discussion to align the focus.

4. Unequal Participation

In some situations, certain individuals may dominate conversations while others stay silent. Encourage participation by assigning specific roles, and asking directly for input from quieter participants. Brainstorming techniques can be used like round-robin, think-pair-share, or small groups to ensure equal participation.

5. Conflict Resolution

Conflicts or disagreements may arise during group discussions, leading to stress and uncertainty. To handle conflicts constructively, encourage active listening, acknowledging different perspectives and viewpoints, facilitating open dialogue, and seeking win-win solutions. By creating an open and inclusive space to resolve conflicts, the group’s dynamics and outcomes will enhance positively.

By proactively addressing these common challenges, groups can have meaningful conversations that lead to actionable insights and productive solutions.

Technology and Group Discussions

Technology has revolutionized the way we communicate and collaborate in group settings. With the rise of virtual meetings, video conferencing, and online collaboration tools, it’s now easier than ever to conduct group discussions from anywhere in the world. However, with these benefits come new challenges as well. Here are some ways technology can impact group discussions and how to overcome them.

Pros of Using Technology in Group Discussions

Increased Flexibility and Accessibility : With online tools, group members can join meetings from anywhere, at any time. This allows for greater flexibility and accessibility, making it easier for people to participate in group discussions even if they are not physically present.

Improved Collaboration : Virtual tools allow group members to collaborate in real-time, regardless of their physical location. This makes it easier for members to share ideas and information, and work together to achieve a common goal.

Reduced Costs : Virtual meetings can significantly reduce costs associated with travel and facility rental. This makes it easier for groups with limited resources to conduct discussions without sacrificing the benefits of in-person meetings.

Cons of Using Technology in Group Discussions

Technical Difficulties : Technical difficulties can arise during virtual meetings, which can delay progress and cause frustration. This can be overcome by having all participants test the technology before the meeting and ensuring all participants have a stable internet connection.

Lack of Non-Verbal Cues : During virtual meetings, non-verbal cues such as body language and facial expressions can be difficult to read. To overcome this, group members must be clear and concise with their verbal communication.

Distractions : Since virtual meetings can be conducted from anywhere, it’s easy for participants to become distracted by their surroundings. To overcome this, establish ground rules for participants such as turning off notifications or finding a quiet space to participate in the discussion.

In conclusion, technology has revolutionized the way we conduct group discussions and collaboration. By being aware of the pros and cons of using virtual meetings and online collaboration tools, groups can take advantage of the benefits while mitigating the challenges.

Group discussions are an effective way to promote critical thinking, collaboration, and communication skills . By understanding the different types of group discussions, selecting suitable topics, and implementing effective strategies, educators and students can foster engaging and productive discussions. Remember to establish ground rules, encourage diverse perspectives, and provide structured prompts to make the most out of your group discussions.

Key Takeaways

• Group discussions can take various forms, including case-based and topic-based discussions.
• Choosing a relevant and thought-provoking topic is crucial for effective discussions.
• Strategies such as establishing ground rules and encouraging diverse perspectives enhance the quality of group discussions .
• Active participation and structured discussion prompts facilitate meaningful conversations.

2 thoughts on “Types of Group Discussion: Strategies for Effective Discussions”

Pretty! This has been an extremely wonderful post. Thanks for providing this information.

Hello growthtactics.net admin, Thanks for the educational content!

Leave a Comment Cancel reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Utility Menu

GA4 Tracking Code

bok_logo_2-02_-_harvard_left.png

Case Study At-A-Glance

A case study is a way to let students interact with material in an open-ended manner. the goal is not to find solutions, but to explore possibilities and options of a real-life scenario..

Want examples of a Case-Study?  Check out the ABLConnect Activity Database Want to read research supporting the Case-Study method? Click here

Why should you facilitate a Case Study?

Want to facilitate a case-study in your class .

How-To Run a Case-Study

• Before class pick the case study topic/scenario. You can either generate a fictional situation or can use a real-world example.
• Clearly let students know how they should prepare. Will the information be given to them in class or do they need to do readings/research before coming to class?
• Have a list of questions prepared to help guide discussion (see below)
• Sessions work best when the group size is between 5-20 people so that everyone has an opportunity to participate. You may choose to have one large whole-class discussion or break into sub-groups and have smaller discussions. If you break into groups, make sure to leave extra time at the end to bring the whole class back together to discuss the key points from each group and to highlight any differences.
• What is the problem?
• What is the cause of the problem?
• Who are the key players in the situation? What is their position?
• What are the relevant data?
• What are possible solutions – both short-term and long-term?
• What are alternate solutions? – Play (or have the students play) Devil’s Advocate and consider alternate view points
• What are potential outcomes of each solution?
• What other information do you want to see?
• What can we learn from the scenario?
• Be flexible. While you may have a set of questions prepared, don’t be afraid to go where the discussion naturally takes you. However, be conscious of time and re-focus the group if key points are being missed
• Role-playing can be an effective strategy to showcase alternate viewpoints and resolve any conflicts
• Involve as many students as possible. Teamwork and communication are key aspects of this exercise. If needed, call on students who haven’t spoken yet or instigate another rule to encourage participation.
• Write out key facts on the board for reference. It is also helpful to write out possible solutions and list the pros/cons discussed.
• Having the information written out makes it easier for students to reference during the discussion and helps maintain everyone on the same page.
• Keep an eye on the clock and make sure students are moving through the scenario at a reasonable pace. If needed, prompt students with guided questions to help them move faster.  
• Either give or have the students give a concluding statement that highlights the goals and key points from the discussion. Make sure to compare and contrast alternate viewpoints that came up during the discussion and emphasize the take-home messages that can be applied to future situations.
• Inform students (either individually or the group) how they did during the case study. What worked? What didn’t work? Did everyone participate equally?
• Taking time to reflect on the process is just as important to emphasize and help students learn the importance of teamwork and communication.

CLICK HERE FOR A PRINTER FRIENDLY VERSION

Other Sources:

Harvard Business School: Teaching By the Case-Study Method

Written by Catherine Weiner

• Interview Questions
• Career Guide

What Do You Mean By Group Discussion?

What are the types of group discussions, importance of group discussions, how did the group discussion round commence, essential skills evaluated during a group discussion, expert tips on how to succeed in group discussions, common mistakes to avoid in a gd round, 20 trending topics for group discussions, faqs on group discussions, what is group discussion.

Group discussions are a vital part of the selection process in many organizations. 

They serve as a platform to assess candidates’ communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills. 

• But what is the meaning of group discussion? 
• How many types are there?
• What is the procedure involved? 

This comprehensive guide will explore these questions, providing you with the essential knowledge to excel in your next group discussion round. 

Read on to discover the key strategies and tips for success in this critical stage of the interview process.

A group discussion is a structured form of communication where participants exchange ideas and viewpoints on a specific topic. 

It is often used in academic settings, corporate environments, and recruitment processes to evaluate individuals’ skills and perspectives. 

Here are the critical elements explaining what is group discussion:

1. Purpose: The main goal is to assess participants’ ability to communicate effectively, think critically, and work collaboratively.

2. Format: Typically involves a group of 6-12 participants discussing a topic within a set time limit.

3. Moderator: A facilitator or moderator usually oversees the discussion to ensure it stays on track and to evaluate the participants.

4. Skills Assessed:

• Communication: Clarity, coherence, and the ability to articulate thoughts.
• Teamwork: Ability to work collaboratively and respect others’ viewpoints.
• Problem-Solving: Ability to analyze the topic and propose solutions or arguments.
• Leadership: Initiative to guide the discussion and encourage participation.

Overall, group discussions are a dynamic and interactive way to measure the participants’ interpersonal and intellectual abilities in a group setting.

Group discussions can be categorized into several types based on content and objectives. Here are the main types of group discussions:

1. Factual Group Discussions

These discussions revolve around concrete facts and information. The participants need to grasp the topic well and present accurate data and evidence to support their viewpoints.

• Example Topics: “The Impact of Global Warming,” “Advancements in Renewable Energy,” and “Current Economic Trends.”
• Skills Assessed: Research abilities, knowledge of the subject, and the ability to present facts.

2. Opinion-Based Group Discussions

In these discussions, participants express their views and opinions on a given topic. There is no right or wrong answer; the focus is on how well participants can argue their perspectives and engage with differing viewpoints.

• Example Topics: “Is Social Media Beneficial or Harmful?”, “The Role of Technology in Education,” “Ethics in Business.”
• Skills Assessed: Critical thinking, persuasive communication, and the ability to handle opposing opinions.

3. Group Conversations Based on Case Studies

Participants are given a scenario or a case study to discuss and analyze. They must work together to identify problems, evaluate options, and propose solutions.

• Example Topics: “A company’s marketing strategy failing,” “A healthcare policy impacting patient care,” “Resolving a workplace conflict.”
• Skills Assessed: Analytical skills, problem-solving, teamwork, and practical application of knowledge.

4. Abstract Group Discussions

These discussions are based on abstract concepts or philosophical ideas. Participants need to interpret the topic creatively and think outside the box.

• Example Topics: “Red vs. Blue,” “A Journey Without a Destination,” “Time is Money.”
• Skills Assessed: Creativity, abstract thinking, and innovatively linking ideas and concepts.

Understanding the different types of group discussions can help participants prepare effectively, showcasing their strengths in various scenarios and contributing meaningfully to the conversation.

Group discussions (GDs) are vital in job interviews, offering a dynamic setting to evaluate candidates’ interpersonal and professional competencies. 

They replicate real-world work environments, enabling employers to assess how individuals perform and interact within a team. 

Here’s why GDs are essential:

• Evaluate Communication Skills : Assess clarity, coherence, and effectiveness in conveying ideas.
• Assess Teamwork : Determine the ability to collaborate and work cohesively with others.
• Test Analytical Thinking: Test problem-solving skills and logical reasoning.
• Identify Leadership Qualities : Spot potential leaders who can guide and motivate the group.
• Measure Knowledge: Check awareness and understanding of relevant topics and current affairs.
• Assess Time Management: Observe how well candidates manage and utilize their allotted time.
• Evaluate Persuasiveness: See how effectively candidates can influence and convince others.
• Test Adaptability: Assess flexibility in handling different viewpoints and unexpected changes.
• Measure Stress Management: Evaluate how candidates handle pressure and maintain composure.
• Understand Interpersonal Dynamics: Gain insights into candidates’ personalities and their ability to interact positively with others.

GDs are an integral part of the interview process, comprehensively assessing a candidate’s suitability for a role.

The group discussion round is well-structured to evaluate participants’ communication, analytical, and teamwork skills. 

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how a typical group discussion round is commenced:

1. Topic Announcement

• Initiation: The moderator announces the topic for discussion. This could be a factual, opinion-based, case study, or abstract topic.
• Briefing: Participants receive a brief overview of the topic and any specific guidelines or rules to follow during the discussion.

2. Preparation Time

• Preparation Period: Participants are usually given a few minutes (typically 3-5) to gather their thoughts, make notes, and organize their ideas.
• Strategy Planning: During this time, participants can plan their strategy for the discussion, considering how to introduce points, counter arguments, and conclusions.

3. Discussion Starts

• Commencement: The moderator signals the start of the discussion, and participants begin sharing their views.
• Initial Contributions: Participants can take turns speaking, with some taking the initiative to start the discussion while others may choose to add their points.

4. Discussion Among Participants

• Interaction: The core of the group discussion involves an interactive exchange of ideas among participants. This phase tests the entire group discussion in communication skills , argument, and collaboration skills.
• Key Elements: Articulation: Clarity and effectiveness in presenting points. Listening: Paying attention to others’ viewpoints and responding appropriately. Leadership: Taking charge of the discussion flow without dominating it. Conflict Management: Handling disagreements constructively.
• Evaluation: After the discussion, the moderator or panel of judges evaluates each participant based on their performance.
• Criteria: Common criteria include communication skills, content knowledge, logical reasoning, teamwork, and leadership qualities .
• Feedback: In some cases, participants may receive feedback on their performance, highlighting strengths and areas for improvement.

Understanding this process helps participants prepare adequately, ensuring they can contribute effectively and make a positive impression during the group discussion round.

Participants are assessed on various skills crucial for effective communication, collaboration, and problem-solving in a group discussion. 

Here are the primary skills on which you are evaluated, along with detailed descriptions:

1. Subject Expertise

• Depth of Knowledge: Demonstrating a comprehensive understanding of the topic. This involves being well-informed and up-to-date with relevant facts, theories, and examples.
• Accuracy and Relevance: Providing accurate and pertinent information to support your arguments. It’s essential to avoid spreading misinformation or going off-topic.

2. Creativity and Originality

• Innovative Thinking: Introducing unique perspectives and fresh ideas others may not have considered. Creativity in approach can differentiate you from other participants.
• Problem-Solving: Applying creative solutions to the issues discussed. This skill showcases your ability to think outside the box and approach problems from various angles.
• Clarity: Ensuring your speech is clear and easily understandable. Articulation and pronunciation play a significant role in how your points are received.
• Tone and Modulation: Use the appropriate tone to convey your message effectively. Voice modulation can help emphasize key points and keep the audience engaged.

4. Bodily Language

• Gestures and Posture: Use positive body language to reinforce your verbal communication. Good posture, appropriate hand gestures, and nodding convey confidence and attentiveness.
• Eye Contact: Maintaining eye contact with fellow participants and the moderator to demonstrate confidence and engagement. Avoiding eye contact can be perceived as disinterest or nervousness.
• Smooth Delivery: Speaking fluently without unnecessary pauses, fillers, or hesitations helps maintain the flow of the discussion and keeps the audience engaged.
• Language Proficiency: Using appropriate vocabulary and grammar to express your ideas clearly and effectively. Mastery of language enhances your credibility and the impact of your contributions.

6. Initiative

• Proactiveness: Taking the lead when necessary by starting the discussion, introducing new points, or steering the conversation back on track if it diverges.
• Encouraging Participation: Facilitating a balanced discussion by encouraging quieter members to share their views and ensuring that all voices are heard.

7. Active Listening

• Attention: Paying close attention to others’ contributions shows respect and interest. Active listening involves nodding, summarizing points, and asking clarifying questions.
• Responsive Interaction: Responding thoughtfully to others’ ideas, building on their points, and respectfully countering when necessary. This skill demonstrates your ability to engage constructively with different viewpoints.

Mastering these skills can significantly enhance your performance in a group discussion, making you stand out as a well-rounded and effective communicator capable of contributing meaningfully to any team or project.

1. Understand the Topic

• Research Thoroughly: Gather as much information as possible about the topic before the discussion. Knowing the background and key points will give you confidence and make your contributions more valuable.
• Clarify Doubts: If the topic is announced on the spot, don’t hesitate to ask for clarification if you don’t understand it completely.

2. Listen Actively

• Pay Attention: Listen to what others are saying without interrupting. This shows respect and helps you build on their points effectively.
• Acknowledge and Respond: Use nods, smiles, or brief verbal acknowledgments to show that you are engaged and understanding the discussion.

3. Be Clear and Concise

• Make Your Points Briefly: Stick to the point and avoid long-winded explanations. Being clear and concise ensures your ideas are understood and appreciated.
• Use Simple Language: Avoid jargon and complex words that might confuse others. Your goal is to communicate effectively, not to impress with vocabulary.

4. Show Leadership Skills

• Initiate the Discussion: If you feel confident, start the discussion. This can set a positive tone and demonstrate your leadership qualities.
• Facilitate Participation: Encourage quieter members to speak up and ensure that everyone gets a chance to contribute. This shows you value teamwork and collaboration.

5. Stay Calm and Composed

• Manage Stress: Stay calm even if the discussion becomes intense. Keeping your composure under pressure is crucial.
• Be Respectful: Avoid getting defensive or aggressive. Respect others’ opinions and address disagreements politely.

6. Respect Other Members

• Value Opinions: Respect all participants by valuing their opinions, even if you disagree with them. This fosters a positive and collaborative environment.
• Avoid Interruptions: Let others finish their points before you speak. Interrupting can be seen as disrespectful and can disrupt the flow of discussion.

7. Contribute Constructively

• Add Value: Make sure your contributions are relevant and add value to the discussion. Avoid repeating points that have already been made.
• Build on Ideas: Constructively build on others’ ideas, which shows that you are listening and thinking critically about the topic.

8. Use Data and Examples

• Support Arguments: Use data, facts, and examples to support your arguments. This makes your points more credible and persuasive.
• Be Prepared: Having a few statistics or real-world examples in mind can help you substantiate your points effectively.

9. Handle Criticism with Poise

• Stay Open-Minded: Accept feedback and criticism without taking it personally. Use it as an opportunity to learn and improve.
• Respond Politely: If you disagree with criticism, respond calmly and respectfully, providing a reasoned argument to support your viewpoint.

10. Summarize Key Points

• Recap Discussions: Towards the end of the discussion, summarize the key points and conclusions reached by the group. This shows your ability to synthesize information and ensures everyone is on the same page.
• Highlight Contributions: Acknowledge contributions from different members, which helps recognize the collaborative effort.

Following these expert tips can enhance your performance in group discussions, demonstrating strong communication, critical thinking, and teamwork skills.

Group discussions can be challenging, and making inevitable mistakes can hinder performance. Here are common pitfalls to avoid:

• Dominating the Discussion Taking over the conversation and not allowing others to speak can be aggressive and inconsiderate. It’s important to balance contributing your ideas with allowing others to share theirs.
• Interrupting Others Interrupting while someone else speaks shows a lack of respect and poor listening skills. Always wait for your turn and let others complete their thoughts before you respond.
• Speaking Without Preparation Starting to speak without having a clear understanding of the topic can lead to unclear and irrelevant points. Take a few moments to gather your thoughts before contributing to ensure your points are coherent and relevant.
• Being Passive Remaining silent or participating minimally can suggest disinterest or a lack of confidence. Make sure to engage actively and share your ideas while maintaining a balance.
• Focusing Solely on Quantity Talking too much without adding substantial value can be detrimental. Aim to make meaningful contributions rather than speaking just for the sake of it.
• Displaying Negative Body Language Negative body language, such as crossing arms, avoiding eye contact, or appearing disinterested, can leave a wrong impression. Use positive body language to show you are engaged and respectful.
• Getting Emotional or Aggressive Allowing emotions to take over can lead to unproductive arguments and conflict. Stay calm, composed, and professional throughout the discussion.
• Ignoring Others’ Opinions Disregarding or not acknowledging others’ viewpoints can create a negative group dynamic. Show that you value and consider different perspectives, even if you disagree.
• Lack of Structure Presenting your points disorganized can confuse others and weaken your arguments. Structure your thoughts logically to make them easier to follow and more persuasive.
• Failing to Summarize Not summarizing critical points at the end can leave the discussion without clear conclusions. Summarize the debate to reinforce the main points and show your ability to synthesize information.

Avoiding these common mistakes can help you perform better in group discussions, demonstrating your communication skills, respect for others, and ability to contribute effectively.

• Artificial Intelligence and its Impact on Jobs
• The Role of Data Science in Business Decision-Making
• The Role of Social Media in Shaping Public Opinion
• Climate Change and Environmental Responsibility
• Cryptocurrency: The Future of Finance?
• The Impact of Remote Work on Productivity
• Data Privacy and Security in the Digital Age
• E-commerce vs. Brick-and-Mortar Stores
• Gender Equality in the Workplace
• The Future of Electric Vehicles
• Mental Health Awareness and Its Importance
• The Pros and Cons of Universal Basic Income
• Influence of Pop Culture on Youth
• The Role of Education in Bridging the Skills Gap
• Sustainable Development: Need of the Hour
• The Ethics of Genetic Engineering
• Impact of Automation on Various Industries
• The Evolution of Space Exploration
• Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare
• Cyberbullying and Its Effects on Teenagers

These relevant topics offer various perspectives ideal for engaging and insightful group discussions.

Group discussions are an essential part of job interviews. They evaluate candidates’ communication, teamwork, and problem-solving abilities in a group setting.

To help you succeed, Great Learning offers free courses like: 

• Smart English Basics for Professionals
• Quantitative Aptitude Basics
• How to Prepare for an Interview

which will help you ace your group discussions. 

For more specialized preparation, consider the Post Graduate Program in Data Science and Business Analytics or in AI and Machine Learning . 

These programs provide in-depth knowledge and practical skills, equipping you to engage in discussions on trending topics in data science, business analytics, and AI and enhancing your readiness for the job market.

A group discussion in communication is a structured conversation among multiple participants in which they share ideas, opinions, and insights on a specific topic.  The goal is to collaboratively explore the subject, solve problems, or make decisions. A moderator often facilitates a group discussion to ensure productive and inclusive dialogue.

It’s essential to remain composed and assertive when faced with a dominant participant. Politely interject by saying, “I appreciate your point, but I would like to add…” or “Let’s hear what others think about this.”  This helps balance the discussion and ensures everyone gets a chance to speak.

The opening statement is crucial as it sets the tone for the discussion. A strong opening can capture your attention and establish your position.  Make it clear, concise, and relevant to the topic. If you’re not the first to speak, you can still make a significant impact by building on previous points.

Feeling nervous is common. Practice relaxation techniques such as deep breathing before the discussion.  Focus on listening actively and contributing thoughtfully rather than trying to dominate. Preparation and practice can also boost your confidence.

Balance assertiveness and humility by confidently expressing your points while remaining open to others’ ideas. Assertiveness involves standing by your views, whereas humility means recognizing that others may have valuable insights.

Disagreeing with the majority is fine if you present your points respectfully and logically. Support your arguments with evidence and be open to counterarguments. Constructive dissent can add value to the discussion.

Top Free Courses

How to Answer ‘Reason for a Job Change’

Best Career Options After 12th Commerce

Career Options After 12th Arts

Top 25 Highest Paying Jobs In India

Career Objective for Resume for Freshers (with Examples)

Top 11 Database Projects To Work On In 2024

Leave a comment cancel reply.

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Search form

• Table of Contents
• Troubleshooting Guide
• A Model for Getting Started
• Justice Action Toolkit
• Best Change Processes
• Databases of Best Practices
• Online Courses
• Ask an Advisor
• Subscribe to eNewsletter
• Community Stories
• YouTube Channel
• About the Tool Box
• How to Use the Tool Box
• Privacy Statement
• Workstation/Check Box Sign-In
• Online Training Courses
• Capacity Building Training
• Training Curriculum - Order Now
• Community Check Box Evaluation System
• Build Your Toolbox
• Facilitation of Community Processes
• Community Health Assessment and Planning
• Section 4. Techniques for Leading Group Discussions

Chapter 16 Sections

• Section 1. Conducting Effective Meetings
• Section 2. Developing Facilitation Skills
• Section 3. Capturing What People Say: Tips for Recording a Meeting

• Main Section

A local coalition forms a task force to address the rising HIV rate among teens in the community.  A group of parents meets to wrestle with their feeling that their school district is shortchanging its students.  A college class in human services approaches the topic of dealing with reluctant participants.  Members of an environmental group attend a workshop on the effects of global warming.  A politician convenes a “town hall meeting” of constituents to brainstorm ideas for the economic development of the region.  A community health educator facilitates a smoking cessation support group.

All of these might be examples of group discussions, although they have different purposes, take place in different locations, and probably run in different ways.  Group discussions are common in a democratic society, and, as a community builder, it’s more than likely that you have been and will continue to be involved in many of them.  You also may be in a position to lead one, and that’s what this section is about.  In this last section of a chapter on group facilitation, we’ll examine what it takes to lead a discussion group well, and how you can go about doing it.

What is an effective group discussion?

The literal definition of a group discussion is obvious: a critical conversation about a particular topic, or perhaps a range of topics, conducted in a group of a size that allows participation by all members.  A group of two or three generally doesn’t need a leader to have a good discussion, but once the number reaches five or six, a leader or facilitator can often be helpful.  When the group numbers eight or more, a leader or facilitator, whether formal or informal, is almost always helpful in ensuring an effective discussion.

A group discussion is a type of meeting, but it differs from the formal meetings in a number of ways: It may not have a specific goal – many group discussions are just that: a group kicking around ideas on a particular topic.  That may lead to a goal ultimately...but it may not. It’s less formal, and may have no time constraints, or structured order, or agenda. Its leadership is usually less directive than that of a meeting. It emphasizes process (the consideration of ideas) over product (specific tasks to be accomplished within the confines of the meeting itself. Leading a discussion group is not the same as running a meeting.  It’s much closer to acting as a facilitator, but not exactly the same as that either.

An effective group discussion generally has a number of elements:

• All members of the group have a chance to speak, expressing their own ideas and feelings freely, and to pursue and finish out their thoughts
• All members of the group can hear others’ ideas and feelings stated openly
• Group members can safely test out ideas that are not yet fully formed
• Group members can receive and respond to respectful but honest and constructive feedback.  Feedback could be positive, negative, or merely clarifying or correcting factual questions or errors, but is in all cases delivered respectfully.
• A variety of points of view are put forward and discussed
• The discussion is not dominated by any one person
• Arguments, while they may be spirited, are based on the content of ideas and opinions, not on personalities
• Even in disagreement, there’s an understanding that the group is working together to resolve a dispute, solve a problem, create a plan, make a decision, find principles all can agree on, or come to a conclusion from which it can move on to further discussion

Many group discussions have no specific purpose except the exchange of ideas and opinions.  Ultimately, an effective group discussion is one in which many different ideas and viewpoints are heard and considered.  This allows the group to accomplish its purpose if it has one, or to establish a basis either for ongoing discussion or for further contact and collaboration among its members.

There are many possible purposes for a group discussion, such as:

• Create a new situation – form a coalition, start an initiative, etc.
• Explore cooperative or collaborative arrangements among groups or organizations
• Discuss and/or analyze an issue, with no specific goal in mind but understanding
• Create a strategic plan – for an initiative, an advocacy campaign, an intervention, etc.
• Discuss policy and policy change
• Air concerns and differences among individuals or groups
• Hold public hearings on proposed laws or regulations, development, etc.
• Decide on an action
• Provide mutual support
• Solve a problem
• Resolve a conflict
• Plan your work or an event

Possible leadership styles of a group discussion also vary.  A group leader or facilitator might be directive or non-directive; that is, she might try to control what goes on to a large extent; or she might assume that the group should be in control, and that her job is to facilitate the process.  In most group discussions, leaders who are relatively non-directive make for a more broad-ranging outlay of ideas, and a more satisfying experience for participants.

Directive leaders can be necessary in some situations. If a goal must be reached in a short time period, a directive leader might help to keep the group focused. If the situation is particularly difficult, a directive leader might be needed to keep control of the discussion and make

Why would you lead a group discussion?

There are two ways to look at this question: “What’s the point of group discussion?” and “Why would you, as opposed to someone else, lead a group discussion?”  Let’s examine both.

What’s the point of group discussion?

As explained in the opening paragraphs of this section, group discussions are common in a democratic society.  There are a number of reasons for this, some practical and some philosophical.

A group discussion:

• G ives everyone involved a voice .  Whether the discussion is meant to form a basis for action, or just to play with ideas, it gives all members of the group a chance to speak their opinions, to agree or disagree with others, and to have their thoughts heard.  In many community-building situations, the members of the group might be chosen specifically because they represent a cross-section of the community, or a diversity of points of view.
• Allows for a variety of ideas to be expressed and discussed .  A group is much more likely to come to a good conclusion if a mix of ideas is on the table, and if all members have the opportunity to think about and respond to them.
• Is generally a democratic, egalitarian process .  It reflects the ideals of most grassroots and community groups, and encourages a diversity of views.
• Leads to group ownership of whatever conclusions, plans, or action the group decides upon .  Because everyone has a chance to contribute to the discussion and to be heard, the final result feels like it was arrived at by and belongs to everyone.
• Encourages those who might normally be reluctant to speak their minds .  Often, quiet people have important things to contribute, but aren’t assertive enough to make themselves heard.  A good group discussion will bring them out and support them.
• Can often open communication channels among people who might not communicate in any other way .  People from very different backgrounds, from opposite ends of the political spectrum, from different cultures, who may, under most circumstances, either never make contact or never trust one another enough to try to communicate, might, in a group discussion, find more common ground than they expected.
• Is sometimes simply the obvious, or even the only, way to proceed.  Several of the examples given at the beginning of the section – the group of parents concerned about their school system, for instance, or the college class – fall into this category, as do public hearings and similar gatherings.

Why would you specifically lead a group discussion?

You might choose to lead a group discussion, or you might find yourself drafted for the task.  Some of the most common reasons that you might be in that situation:

• It’s part of your job .  As a mental health counselor, a youth worker, a coalition coordinator, a teacher, the president of a board of directors, etc. you might be expected to lead group discussions regularly.
• You’ve been asked to .  Because of your reputation for objectivity or integrity, because of your position in the community, or because of your skill at leading group discussions, you might be the obvious choice to lead a particular discussion.
• A discussion is necessary, and you’re the logical choice to lead it .  If you’re the chair of a task force to address substance use in the community, for instance, it’s likely that you’ll be expected to conduct that task force’s meetings, and to lead discussion of the issue.
• It was your idea in the first place .  The group discussion, or its purpose, was your idea, and the organization of the process falls to you.

You might find yourself in one of these situations if you fall into one of the categories of people who are often tapped to lead group discussions.  These categories include (but aren’t limited to):

• Directors of organizations
• Public officials
• Coalition coordinators
• Professionals with group-leading skills – counselors, social workers, therapists, etc.
• Health professionals and health educators
• Respected community members.  These folks may be respected for their leadership – president of the Rotary Club, spokesperson for an environmental movement – for their positions in the community – bank president, clergyman – or simply for their personal qualities – integrity, fairness, ability to communicate with all sectors of the community.
• Community activists.  This category could include anyone from “professional” community organizers to average citizens who care about an issue or have an idea they want to pursue.

When might you lead a group discussion?

The need or desire for a group discussion might of course arise anytime, but there are some times when it’s particularly necessary.

• At the start of something new . Whether you’re designing an intervention, starting an initiative, creating a new program, building a coalition, or embarking on an advocacy or other campaign, inclusive discussion is likely to be crucial in generating the best possible plan, and creating community support for and ownership of it.
• When an issue can no longer be ignored . When youth violence reaches a critical point, when the community’s drinking water is declared unsafe, when the HIV infection rate climbs – these are times when groups need to convene to discuss the issue and develop action plans to swing the pendulum in the other direction.
• When groups need to be brought together . One way to deal with racial or ethnic hostility, for instance, is to convene groups made up of representatives of all the factions involved.  The resulting discussions – and the opportunity for people from different backgrounds to make personal connections with one another – can go far to address everyone’s concerns, and to reduce tensions.
• When an existing group is considering its next step or seeking to address an issue of importance to it . The staff of a community service organization, for instance, may want to plan its work for the next few months, or to work out how to deal with people with particular quirks or problems.

How do you lead a group discussion?

In some cases, the opportunity to lead a group discussion can arise on the spur of the moment; in others, it’s a more formal arrangement, planned and expected.  In the latter case, you may have the chance to choose a space and otherwise structure the situation.  In less formal circumstances, you’ll have to make the best of existing conditions.

We’ll begin by looking at what you might consider if you have time to prepare.  Then we’ll examine what it takes to make an effective discussion leader or facilitator, regardless of external circumstances.

Set the stage

If you have time to prepare beforehand, there are a number of things you may be able to do to make the participants more comfortable, and thus to make discussion easier.

Choose the space

If you have the luxury of choosing your space, you might look for someplace that’s comfortable and informal.  Usually, that means comfortable furniture that can be moved around (so that, for instance, the group can form a circle, allowing everyone to see and hear everyone else easily).  It may also mean a space away from the ordinary.

One organization often held discussions on the terrace of an old mill that had been turned into a bookstore and café.  The sound of water from the mill stream rushing by put everyone at ease, and encouraged creative thought.

Provide food and drink

The ultimate comfort, and one that breaks down barriers among people, is that of eating and drinking.

Bring materials to help the discussion along

Most discussions are aided by the use of newsprint and markers to record ideas, for example.

Become familiar with the purpose and content of the discussion

If you have the opportunity, learn as much as possible about the topic under discussion.  This is not meant to make you the expert, but rather to allow you to ask good questions that will help the group generate ideas.

Make sure everyone gets any necessary information, readings, or other material beforehand

If participants are asked to read something, consider questions, complete a task, or otherwise prepare for the discussion, make sure that the assignment is attended to and used.  Don’t ask people to do something, and then ignore it.

Lead the discussion

Think about leadership style

The first thing you need to think about is leadership style, which we mentioned briefly earlier in the section.  Are you a directive or non-directive leader?  The chances are that, like most of us, you fall somewhere in between the extremes of the leader who sets the agenda and dominates the group completely, and the leader who essentially leads not at all. The point is made that many good group or meeting leaders are, in fact, facilitators, whose main concern is supporting and maintaining the process of the group’s work.  This is particularly true when it comes to group discussion, where the process is, in fact, the purpose of the group’s coming together.

A good facilitator helps the group set rules for itself, makes sure that everyone participates and that no one dominates, encourages the development and expression of all ideas, including “odd” ones, and safeguards an open process, where there are no foregone conclusions and everyone’s ideas are respected.  Facilitators are non-directive, and try to keep themselves out of the discussion, except to ask questions or make statements that advance it.  For most group discussions, the facilitator role is probably a good ideal to strive for.

It’s important to think about what you’re most comfortable with philosophically, and how that fits what you’re comfortable with personally.  If you’re committed to a non-directive style, but you tend to want to control everything in a situation, you may have to learn some new behaviors in order to act on your beliefs.

Put people at ease

Especially if most people in the group don’t know one another, it’s your job as leader to establish a comfortable atmosphere and set the tone for the discussion.

Help the group establish ground rules

The ground rules of a group discussion are the guidelines that help to keep the discussion on track, and prevent it from deteriorating into namecalling or simply argument.  Some you might suggest, if the group has trouble coming up with the first one or two:

• Everyone should treat everyone else with respect : no name-calling, no emotional outbursts, no accusations.
• No arguments directed at people – only at ideas and opinions .  Disagreement should be respectful – no ridicule.
• Don’t interrupt .  Listen to the whole of others’ thoughts – actually listen, rather than just running over your own response in your head.
• Respect the group’s time .  Try to keep your comments reasonably short and to the point, so that others have a chance to respond.
• Consider all comments seriously, and try to evaluate them fairly .  Others’ ideas and comments may change your mind, or vice versa: it’s important to be open to that.
• Don’t be defensive if someone disagrees with you .  Evaluate both positions, and only continue to argue for yours if you continue to believe it’s right.
• Everyone is responsible for following and upholding the ground rules .

Ground rules may also be a place to discuss recording the session.  Who will take notes, record important points, questions for further discussion, areas of agreement or disagreement?  If the recorder is a group member, the group and/or leader should come up with a strategy that allows her to participate fully in the discussion.

Generate an agenda or goals for the session

You might present an agenda for approval, and change it as the group requires, or you and the group can create one together.  There may actually be no need for one, in that the goal may simply be to discuss an issue or idea.  If that’s the case, it should be agreed upon at the outset.

How active you are might depend on your leadership style, but you definitely have some responsibilities here.  They include setting, or helping the group to set the discussion topic; fostering the open process; involving all participants; asking questions or offering ideas to advance the discussion; summarizing or clarifying important points, arguments, and ideas; and wrapping up the session.  Let’s look at these, as well as some do’s and don’t’s for discussion group leaders.

• Setting the topic . If the group is meeting to discuss a specific issue or to plan something, the discussion topic is already set.  If the topic is unclear, then someone needs to help the group define it.  The leader – through asking the right questions, defining the problem, and encouraging ideas from the group – can play that role.
• Fostering the open process . Nurturing the open process means paying attention to the process, content, and interpersonal dynamics of the discussion all at the same time – not a simple matter. As leader, your task is not to tell the group what to do, or to force particular conclusions, but rather to make sure that the group chooses an appropriate topic that meets its needs, that there are no “right” answers to start with (no foregone conclusions), that no one person or small group dominates the discussion, that everyone follows the ground rules, that discussion is civil and organized, and that all ideas are subjected to careful critical analysis.  You might comment on the process of the discussion or on interpersonal issues when it seems helpful (“We all seem to be picking on John here – what’s going on?”), or make reference to the open process itself (“We seem to be assuming that we’re supposed to believe X – is that true?”). Most of your actions as leader should be in the service of modeling or furthering the open process.

Part of your job here is to protect “minority rights,” i.e., unpopular or unusual ideas.  That doesn’t mean you have to agree with them, but that you have to make sure that they can be expressed, and that discussion of them is respectful, even in disagreement. (The exceptions are opinions or ideas that are discriminatory or downright false.)  Odd ideas often turn out to be correct, and shouldn’t be stifled.

• Involving all participants . This is part of fostering the open process, but is important enough to deserve its own mention. To involve those who are less assertive or shy, or who simply can’t speak up quickly enough, you might ask directly for their opinion, encourage them with body language (smile when they say anything, lean and look toward them often), and be aware of when they want to speak and can’t break in.  It’s important both for process and for the exchange of ideas that everyone have plenty of opportunity to communicate their thoughts.
• Asking questions or offering ideas to advance the discussion . The leader should be aware of the progress of the discussion, and should be able to ask questions or provide information or arguments that stimulate thinking or take the discussion to the next step when necessary. If participants are having trouble grappling with the topic, getting sidetracked by trivial issues, or simply running out of steam, it’s the leader’s job to carry the discussion forward.

This is especially true when the group is stuck, either because two opposing ideas or factions are at an impasse, or because no one is able or willing to say anything.  In these circumstances, the leader’s ability to identify points of agreement, or to ask the question that will get discussion moving again is crucial to the group’s effectiveness.

• Summarizing or clarifying important points, arguments, or ideas . This task entails making sure that everyone understands a point that was just made, or the two sides of an argument.  It can include restating a conclusion the group has reached, or clarifying a particular idea or point made by an individual (“What I think I heard you say was…”).  The point is to make sure that everyone understands what the individual or group actually meant.
• Wrapping up the session .  As the session ends, the leader should help the group review the discussion and make plans for next steps (more discussion sessions, action, involving other people or groups, etc.). He should also go over any assignments or tasks that were agreed to, make sure that every member knows what her responsibilities are, and review the deadlines for those responsibilities.  Other wrap-up steps include getting feedback on the session – including suggestions for making it better – pointing out the group’s accomplishments, and thanking it for its work.

Even after you’ve wrapped up the discussion, you’re not necessarily through. If you’ve been the recorder, you might want to put the notes from the session in order, type them up, and send them to participants. The notes might also include a summary of conclusions that were reached, as well as any assignments or follow-up activities that were agreed on.

If the session was one-time, or was the last of a series, your job may now be done. If it was the beginning, however, or part of an ongoing discussion, you may have a lot to do before the next session, including contacting people to make sure they’ve done what they promised, and preparing the newsprint notes to be posted at the next session so everyone can remember the discussion.

Leading an effective group discussion takes preparation (if you have the opportunity for it), an understanding of and commitment to an open process, and a willingness to let go of your ego and biases. If you can do these things, the chances are you can become a discussion leader that can help groups achieve the results they want.

Do’s and don’ts for discussion leaders

• Model the behavior and attitudes you want group members to employ . That includes respecting all group members equally; advancing the open process; demonstrating what it means to be a learner (admitting when you’re wrong, or don’t know a fact or an answer, and suggesting ways to find out); asking questions based on others’ statements; focusing on positions rather than on the speaker; listening carefully; restating others’ points; supporting your arguments with fact or logic; acceding when someone else has a good point; accepting criticism; thinking critically; giving up the floor when appropriate; being inclusive and culturally sensitive, etc.
• Use encouraging body language and tone of voice, as well as words .  Lean forward when people are talking, for example, keep your body position open and approachable, smile when appropriate, and attend carefully to everyone, not just to those who are most articulate.
• Give positive feedback for joining the discussion .  Smile, repeat group members’ points, and otherwise show that you value participation.
• Be aware of people’s reactions and feelings, and try to respond appropriately . If a group member is hurt by others’ comments, seems puzzled or confused, is becoming angry or defensive, it’s up to you as discussion leader to use the ground rules or your own sensitivity to deal with the situation. If someone’s hurt, for instance, it may be important to point that out and discuss how to make arguments without getting personal.  If group members are confused, revisiting the comments or points that caused the confusion, or restating them more clearly, may be helpful.  Being aware of the reactions of individuals and of the group as a whole can make it possible to expose and use conflict, or to head off unnecessary emotional situations and misunderstandings.
• Ask open-ended questions .  In advancing the discussion, use questions that can’t be answered with a simple yes or no.  Instead, questions should require some thought from group members, and should ask for answers that include reasons or analysis.  The difference between “Do you think the President’s decision was right?” and “Why do you think the President’s decision was or wasn’t right?” is huge.  Where the first question can be answered with a yes or no, the second requires an analysis supporting the speaker’s opinion, as well as discussion of the context and reasons for the decision.
• Control your own biases .  While you should point out factual errors or ideas that are inaccurate and disrespectful of others, an open process demands that you not impose your views on the group, and that you keep others from doing the same.  Group members should be asked to make rational decisions about the positions or views they want to agree with, and ultimately the ideas that the group agrees on should be those that make the most sense to them – whether they coincide with yours or not.  Pointing out bias – including your own – and discussing it helps both you and group members try to be objective.

A constant question that leaders – and members – of any group have is what to do about racist, sexist, or homophobic remarks, especially in a homogeneous group where most or all of the members except the leader may agree with them.  There is no clear-cut answer, although if they pass unchallenged, it may appear you condone the attitude expressed. How you challenge prejudice is the real question.  The ideal here is that other members of the group do the challenging, and it may be worth waiting long enough before you jump in to see if that’s going to happen.  If it doesn’t, you can essentially say, “That’s wrong, and I won’t allow that kind of talk here,” which may well put an end to the remarks, but isn’t likely to change anyone’s mind.  You can express your strong disagreement or discomfort with such remarks and leave it at that, or follow up with “Let’s talk about it after the group,” which could generate some real discussion about prejudice and stereotypes, and actually change some thinking over time. Your ground rules – the issue of respecting everyone – should address this issue, and it probably won’t come up…but there are no guarantees.  It won’t hurt to think beforehand about how you want to handle it.

• Encourage disagreement, and help the group use it creatively .  Disagreement is not to be smoothed over, but rather to be analyzed and used.  When there are conflicting opinions – especially when both can be backed up by reasonable arguments – the real discussion starts.  If everyone agrees on every point, there’s really no discussion at all.  Disagreement makes people think.  It may not be resolved in one session, or at all, but it’s the key to discussion that means something.

All too often, conflict – whether conflicting opinions, conflicting world views, or conflicting personalities – is so frightening to people that they do their best to ignore it or gloss it over.  That reaction not only leaves the conflict unresolved – and therefore growing, so that it will be much stronger when it surfaces later– but fails to examine the issues that it raises.  If those are brought out in the open and discussed reasonably, the two sides often find that they have as much agreement as disagreement, and can resolve their differences by putting their ideas together.  Even where that’s not the case, facing the conflict reasonably, and looking at the roots of the ideas on each side, can help to focus on the issue at hand and provide solutions far better than if one side or the other simply operated alone.

• Keep your mouth shut as much as possible .  By and large, discussion groups are for the group members.  You may be a member of the group and have been asked by the others to act as leader, in which case you certainly have a right to be part of the discussion (although not to dominate).  If you’re an outside facilitator, or leader by position, it’s best to confine your contributions to observations on process, statements of fact, questions to help propel the discussion, and clarification and summarization.  The simple fact that you’re identified as leader or facilitator gives your comments more force than those of other group members.  If you’re in a position of authority or seen as an expert, that force becomes even greater.  The more active you are in the discussion, the more the group will take your positions and ideas as “right,” and the less it will come to its own conclusions.
• Don’t let one or a small group of individuals dominate the discussion .  People who are particularly articulate or assertive, who have strong feelings that they urgently want to express, or who simply feel the need – and have the ability – to dominate can take up far more than their fair share of a discussion.  This often means that quieter people have little or no chance to speak, and that those who disagree with the dominant individual(s) are shouted down and cease trying to make points.  It’s up to the leader to cut off individuals who take far more than their share of time, or who try to limit discussion.  This can be done in a relatively non-threatening way (“This is an interesting point, and it’s certainly worth the time we’ve spent on it, but there are other points of view that need to be heard as well.  I think Alice has been waiting to speak…”), but it’s crucial to the open process and to the comfort and effectiveness of the group.
• Don’t let one point of view override others , unless it’s based on facts and logic, and is actually convincing group members to change their minds.  If a point of view dominates because of its merits, its appeal to participants’ intellectual and ethical sensibilities, that’s fine.  It’s in fact what you hope will happen in a good group discussion.  If a point of view dominates because of the aggressiveness of its supporters, or because it’s presented as something it’s wrong to oppose (“People who disagree with the President are unpatriotic and hate their country”), that’s intellectual bullying or blackmail, and is the opposite of an open discussion.  As leader, you should point it out when that’s happening, and make sure other points of view are aired and examined.

Sometimes individuals or factions that are trying to dominate can disrupt the process of the group. Both Sections 1 and 2 of this chapter contain some guidelines for dealing with this type of situation.

• Don’t assume that anyone holds particular opinions or positions because of his culture, background, race, personal style, etc .  People are individuals, and can’t be judged by their exteriors.  You can find out what someone thinks by asking, or by listening when he speaks.
• Don’t assume that someone from a particular culture, race, or background speaks for everyone else from that situation .  She may or may not represent the general opinion of people from situations similar to hers…or there may not be a general opinion among them.  In a group discussion, no one should be asked or assumed to represent anything more than herself.

The exception here is when someone has been chosen by her community or group to represent its point of view in a multi-sector discussion.  Even in that situation, the individual may find herself swayed by others’ arguments, or may have ideas of her own.  She may have agreed to sponsor particular ideas that are important to her group, but she may still have her own opinions as well, especially in other areas.

• Don’t be the font of all wisdom .  Even if you know more about the discussion topic than most others in the group (if you’re the teacher of a class, for instance), presenting yourself as the intellectual authority denies group members the chance to discuss the topic freely and without pressure.  Furthermore, some of them may have ideas you haven’t considered, or experiences that give them insights into the topic that you’re never likely to have.  Model learning behavior, not teaching behavior.

If you’re asked your opinion directly, you should answer honestly.  You have some choices about how you do that, however.  One is to state your opinion, but make very clear that it’s an opinion, not a fact, and that other people believe differently.  Another is to ask to hold your opinion until the end of the discussion, so as not to influence anyone’s thinking while it’s going on.  Yet another is to give your opinion after all other members of the group have stated theirs, and then discuss the similarities and differences among all the opinions and people’s reasons for holding them. If you’re asked a direct question, you might want to answer it if it’s a question of fact and you know the answer, and if it’s relevant to the discussion.  If the question is less clear-cut, you might want to throw it back to the group, and use it as a spur to discussion.

Group discussions are common in our society, and have a variety of purposes, from planning an intervention or initiative to mutual support to problem-solving to addressing an issue of local concern.  An effective discussion group depends on a leader or facilitator who can guide it through an open process – the group chooses what it’s discussing, if not already determined, discusses it with no expectation of particular conclusions, encourages civil disagreement and argument, and makes sure that every member is included and no one dominates.  It helps greatly if the leader comes to the task with a democratic or, especially, a collaborative style, and with an understanding of how a group functions.

A good group discussion leader has to pay attention to the process and content of the discussion as well as to the people who make up the group.  She has to prepare the space and the setting to the extent possible; help the group establish ground rules that will keep it moving civilly and comfortably; provide whatever materials are necessary; familiarize herself with the topic; and make sure that any pre-discussion readings or assignments get to participants in plenty of time.  Then she has to guide the discussion, being careful to promote an open process; involve everyone and let no one dominate; attend to the personal issues and needs of individual group members when they affect the group; summarize or clarify when appropriate; ask questions to keep the discussion moving, and put aside her own agenda, ego, and biases.

It’s not an easy task, but it can be extremely rewarding.  An effective group discussion can lay the groundwork for action and real community change.

Online resources

Everyday-Democracy . Study Circles Resource Center. Information and publications related to study circles, participatory discussion groups meant to address community issues.

Facilitating Political Discussions from the Institute for Democracy and Higher Education at Tufts University is designed to assist experienced facilitators in training others to facilitate politically charged conversations. The materials are broken down into "modules" and facilitation trainers can use some or all of them to suit their needs.

Project on Civic Reflection provides information about leading study circles on civic reflection.

“ Suggestions for Leading Small-Group Discussions ,” prepared by Lee Haugen, Center for Teaching Excellence, Iowa State University, 1998. Tips on university teaching, but much of the information is useful in other circumstances as well.

“ Tips for Leading Discussions ,” by Felisa Tibbits, Human Rights Education Associates.

Print resources

Forsyth, D . Group Dynamics . (2006). (4th edition).  Belmont, CA: Thomson Wadsworth. 

Johnson, D., & Frank P. (2002). Joining Together: Group theory and group skills . (8th edition).  Boston: Allyn & Bacon.

An official website of the United States government

The .gov means it’s official. Federal government websites often end in .gov or .mil. Before sharing sensitive information, make sure you’re on a federal government site.

The site is secure. The https:// ensures that you are connecting to the official website and that any information you provide is encrypted and transmitted securely.

• Publications
• Account settings

The PMC website is updating on October 15, 2024. Learn More or Try it out now .

• Advanced Search
• Journal List
• J Patient Exp

Focus Group Discussion as a Tool to Assess Patient-Based Outcomes, Practical Tips for Conducting Focus Group Discussion for Medical Students—Learning With an Example

Balaji zacharia.

1 Department of Orthopedics, Government Medical College, Kozhikode, Kerala, India

Puneeth Katapadi Pai

2 Government Medical College, Kozhikode, Kerala, India

3 Department of Surgical Oncology, Regional Cancer Center, Trivandrum, Kerala, India

Patient-based outcomes (patient-reported outcomes) of any intervention can change according to factors like age, gender, region, culture, education, and socioeconomic status. Most of the available outcome measuring tools have a surgeon-related bias. Focus group discussion (FGD) is a simple and effective way to assess the outcome of an intervention. In FGD, people from similar backgrounds and experiences discuss a specific topic of interest. Our objective is to discuss the problems of common outcome measuring tools for patient satisfaction and to understand the method of conducting an FGD. We have set our own published article on patient-based outcomes after total knee arthroplasty (TKA) as an example for explaining the method of conducting an FGD. The planning, advantages, disadvantages, practicalities, and problems of conducting an FGD are explained. In conclusion, many of the tools used for assessing patient satisfaction is surgeon-centered. Focus group discussion is simple, cost-effective, requiring a small number of participants, and can be completed in a short period. It is an effective tool for assessing patient-based outcomes in TKA.

Introduction

The patient satisfaction assessment is very important in medical practice. It helps to improve medical care and make the patient happier ( 1 ). A patient’s expectation after a procedure is defined as the anticipation of certain events happening during or after surgery ( 2 ). Patient dissatisfaction can result either from inappropriate expectations or from a lack of proper information regarding the outcomes. The surgeon gives importance to procedural success. They are usually unaware of patient dissatisfaction. Regional, social, cultural, and economic factors have a bearing on the outcomes of any treatment ( 3 ).

Surgical outcomes refer to data regarding operation results, including information about mortality and morbidity, recovery time, operative numbers, and repeat rates ( 4 ). This is different from the surgeon’s expectations about the outcome which vary with the type of surgery, the seriousness of the condition, the age and fitness of the patient, the experience of the surgeon, and the volume of surgery done. Most of the tools used to find out the outcomes and measure the ability of the surgeon to produce statistically significant data using certain prescribed parameters ( 5 ). The surgeon judges the success of surgery based on the anatomical, radiological, and functional outcomes. The majority of the tools used for measuring the outcomes of surgery are based on the fact that the patient and the clinician have a common viewpoint about the outcome. This is not always true as the patient and the doctor have different perceptions about all domains of outcomes. This is true in subjective quality-of-life domains like emotional and social functioning ( 6 ). This may be probably due to the differing priorities of the 2 groups. This discrepancy between patient and clinician in the validation of health-related outcomes has guided the development of many validated patient-related outcome measures like Short Form 36 (SF 36), Eating disorder Quality of life (ED-QOL), Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index (WOMAC), Oxford Knee Score, and so on. These tools allow patients to rate their health and they are the center of outcome assessment ( 7 ).

Total knee replacement (TKR) is a common surgery done for osteoarthritis (OA) of the knee worldwide. It has a major effect on the activities of daily living. The geographical, social, cultural, economic, and many factors of a population can influence the outcomes of TKR. Expectations after the knee replacement will differ entirely among different populations ( 8 ). A successful TKR may not be a satisfactory one for the patient due to differences in factors determining the outcome measures ( Table 1 ). Many previous studies have looked into the patient-reported outcomes of TKR ( Table 2 ).

A Comparison Between the Factors Affecting the Outcomes in a Successful Total Knee Replacement and Patient Satisfaction After a Total Knee Replacement.

Abbreviation: TKR, total knee replacement.

The List of Few Previous studies to Assess Patient-Reported Outcomes After Total Knee Replacement With the Methods Used for Assessment and Their Conclusions.

Abbreviations: FGD, focus group discussion; HOOS, Hip disability and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score; KOOS, Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score; ODI, Oswestry Disability Index; RAND, RAND-36 scales; TKA, total knee arthroplasty; WOMAC, Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis Index.

Focus group discussion (FGD) is a qualitative research method. It can be used for evaluating the outcomes of health care interventions ( 9 ). A focused group discussion is an effective way to bring people from similar backgrounds and experiences to discuss a specific topic of interest. This group is guided by a moderator/leader. The moderator introduces the topic for discussion and helps the group to participate in a lively and natural way. The participants should stay on the topic and not wander ( 10 – 12 ).

There are many advantages to FGD. It can be used to explore the outcomes that cannot be explained statistically. Responses in FGD are spoken open-ended, relatively broad, and qualitative ( 13 ). They have more depth and variety. There can be nonverbal communication and group interactions. They can give an idea closer to what people are thinking and feeling. Focus group discussion is a good way to gather in-depth information about the community’s thoughts and opinions on a topic ( 14 , 15 ). Focus group discussion can yield a lot of information about a topic in a relatively short time. All these pieces of information may not be relevant. Observations and the opinions we get from FGD have to be mentioned in their own words. It can cause difficulties during translation ( 16 , 17 ). Thematic analysis and constant comparison techniques are used for data analysis ( 18 ).

Our objective is to discuss FGD as a tool to assess patient satisfaction. We also want to give some general guidelines for conducting FGD. This is based on our article published in the Journal of Medical Devices : Evidence and Research “Patient-based outcome analysis is important to determine the success of total knee arthroplasty: the result of a focus group discussion” ( 19 ) (We have taken permission from the publisher).

Materials and Methods

Fifty patients were selected for FGD. Among them, 42 patients participated in FGD. The remaining 8 did not participated. We included persons who had completed 2 years after primary TKR. Six FGD sessions was conducted. We included participants who were homogeneous in terms of age, status, class, occupation, and follow-up characteristics. Patients with inflammatory arthritis, secondary OA, posttraumatic arthritis, old high tibial osteotomy, and revision TKR were excluded from our study. Since we aimed to find out the patient-reported outcomes, we used a purposive sampling method. We collected the patient details from our hospital records. We selected a moderator who had no relationship with the patients. The participants were divided into 8 groups, each having 6 members. The allocation was done by simple randomization. After each FGD, we went through the discussions and created new domains and subdomains. Based on this, we prepared new questions for the next sessions. It helped us to discuss a bit deeper into the new domains ( 19 ). Proper planning is needed before the conduct of FGD ( Appendix A ).

The group’s composition and the discussion should be carefully planned to create a nonthreatening environment. All participants feel free to talk openly and give honest opinions. There is freedom for the participants to agree or disagree with each other. We have to support them to come out with their own opinions. They are free to express their thoughts and feelings, although their responses are hard or impossible to record on a scale.

The demographic data of the participants were collected. We also checked the knee society score of all the participants before FGD. The FGD sessions were started with a self-introduction session. We gave some time for the participants for getting to know each other. This helped them to alleviate their fear of open discussion. Then the moderator introduced himself and his team. The moderator explained the objective of this discussion and the procedure. Then he initiated the FGD by putting an open general question. Group members were free to talk openly. The groups took more time to respond than individuals. Some group members felt hesitant to speak openly. Participants were actively encouraged to express their own opinions and to respond to other members and questions posed by the leader. The moderator made sure that the discussions revolved around the topic. The group members could often stimulate thought for each other which might not have occurred otherwise. We stopped the sessions when no fresh domains emerged ( 20 , 21 ).

During our FGD, most of the participants were discussing the problems they had before the knee arthroplasty and about various treatment methods used by them to overcome these difficulties. They discussed about why they were reluctant to come for operative treatment, how they felt after surgery, and their satisfaction after TKR. We created new domains and subdomains after each FGD by making a transcript of the discussions in the patient’s own words and carefully analyzing them. No fresh domains or subdomains emerged after the fourth FGD.

During each FGD, the opinions of the participants in their own words were taken down by a person. We used both written and voice recordings of our FGD. The data obtained are analyzed by 2 different individuals who are not part of the FGD. This was to ensure the naturality and credibility of the findings. A thematic analysis of the findings was done. Thematic analysis is a qualitative descriptive method to identify and analyze the narrative materials to report patterns or themes. This method has the flexibility for analysis. These interpretations and observations were combined and a conclusion was made.

We had obtained institutional research committee approval for this study. The patients were informed about the study and that data from the FGD would be submitted for publication and their consent was taken.

We have taken the results from 4 FGD because the opinions plateaued thereafter. There were 24 participants between the ages of 50 to 65 years. Among the 24 participants, 15 were males and 9 females. The average knee society score was 1.18 with a standard deviation of 0.50. Five major domains were evolved after our FGD. From the major domains, many minor domains were also developed ( Table 3 ). From the FGD conducted, we found that the socioeconomic impact of OA of the knee is worse than the clinical and radiological severity of the disease. Patients with high preoperative expectations have low satisfaction levels. Surgeon–patient communication has a major impact on patient-reported outcomes. The patient satisfaction level is different from those measured using objective scoring systems. Patient satisfaction levels are high for pain relief, pain-free movements, and social independence. But they are not satisfied because of their inability to returning to their original occupation and performing activities that require knee flexion.

The Major and Minor Domains Emerged From our Focus Group Discussion to Assess Patient Satisfaction After Total Knee Replacement.

From our analysis, we found that loss of function was a major concern before surgery. The pain and deformity were the next. One patient told us, “Walking caused severe pain that I was restricted to my home. I was unable to squat in the toilet.” Some of them even converted their squat toilets to western type of toilets.

The social disabilities due to OA of the knee were far more than we thought. The majority of patients were restricted to their homes. They avoided attending family functions. The majority said they needed help from their children or others in climbing upstairs or for walking long distances. The difficulty to use squat toilets was another social issue. These issues were causing mental stress and depression in some patients. Loss of income due to inability to go to work was another problem. Some stopped going to work while others went to work but were less efficient. They had to take more leaves which led to reduced pay. Most of these patients were belonging to a low- or middle-income group. This affected their daily livelihood. There was a delay of 2 to 3 years before surgery for most of the patients. The affordability of total knee arthroplasty (TKA) was the major issue. They tried different modalities like Ayurveda, massaging, and acupuncture in-between. The majority were unaware of the results of TKR. Some were reluctant to do a TKR due to the fear of undergoing surgery.

Most of them were happy after TKR as they could walk and climb stairs independently. They had minimum pain compared to the preoperative level. Some patients thought they could go for manual work and use the squat toilet after TKR. They opined low satisfaction levels because they couldn’t do it after TKR. But some patients were aware of these problems before surgery and their satisfaction level was high. Proper preoperative education and expectations have a bearing on postoperative outcomes. We also came to know that most of the patients were not getting proper postoperative rehabilitation. They were taught about the rehabilitation protocol postoperatively but were not doing it properly. Some said that they were hesitant to flex the knee because they feared something might happen to the implant. Some blamed the doctors for not explaining these things.

There are some reasons behind selecting patients after TKR for assessing their satisfaction. The number of patients opting for TKR is increasing in our population. We are working in a government medical college in a developing country. Most of our patients for TKR hail from low socioeconomic status. Most of them are manual laborers and living in rural areas having limited road connectivity to their houses. They have to walk or climb hilly terrains. They have to work on farms or fields to earn their livelihood. They use squat toilets. After TKR, most of them want to return to their prior occupation. They can’t change their living conditions. Most patients become aware of the postoperative limitations only after TKR. Many of our patients were unhappy after TKR even when they are clinically and radiologically fine. This prompted us to find out the patient-reported outcome of our patients after TKR. We used FGD as a tool for knowing our patient’s satisfaction and opinions regarding TKR. The usually used measuring tools are surgeon-dependent and originate from developed countries.

Practical Problems in Conducting an FGD

As in any research method, finding a representative sample is very important in FGD. Make sure that all the participants are similar in their regional, cultural, educational, language, and socioeconomic status. Otherwise, there can be disparities in their opinions regarding the same issues. For example, if we are conducting an FGD about strengthening public transport and participants from rural and urban areas are included, their perceptions and opinion may vary. The city dwellers may be using their vehicles for travel they may be worried about traffic blocks or pathetic situations on the road, whereas the rural dwellers will be more worried about the number of buses and the making of new roads. In our case, all patients belonged to the same region, similar age-group, same diagnosis, and similar socioeconomic status ( 22 , 23 ).

Focus group discussion can be a powerful tool for gathering data on experiences, beliefs, attitudes, and perceptions. Asking sensitive questions is not at all a problem in the FGD. As all the participants belong to the same cohort, hence the topic of discussion becomes very simple for them ( 24 ). Usually, 1 or 2 questions for the starting of the discussion are needed. Usually, they are simple and general questions. Sometimes, new questions will be added which are emerging from the analysis of previous FGD. The questions are formed by the participants and the answers of which come from themselves. We have not come across any difficult situations where we have a problem with asking a sensitive question. We have prepared a set of questions for our FGD ( Table 4 ).

The Main Questions and the Probes Prepared for Our Focus Group Discussion.

Abbreviation: TKA, total knee arthroplasty.

Recruiting participants is not a difficult task in FGD. In most cases, we can find out the participants from the cohort. We can collect the details of the participants from the outpatient clinic, from community nurses, hospital records, or from registries ( 25 ). We have obtained the details about our participants from the hospital records. We contacted them over telephones. One of our residents was given the charge of contacting the participants before each session.

Language barrier can be a problem. The participants and the moderator need to be well-versed in the language in which they are conducting FGD. Analysis of data and their interpretations also becomes difficult if they are not using the same language. We conducted the FGD in our mother tongue Malayalam. We did have some difficulty in translating certain colloquial terms into the English language during the publication of our results.

Maintaining quality and consistency during each session is very important ( 26 ). The audio or video recording of the FGD sessions helps to maintain the quality of the procedure. Quality control is the responsibility of the moderator. We had an audio recording of all our proceedings. And the moderator had full control of the whole team during the entire session.

Our Experiences

Our journey started by searching the literature for a simple but practical method for assessing patient satisfaction after TKA. After deciding to conduct FGD, we collected patients from the hospital records. They were randomly allocated to 6 groups. The date, time, and place of each session were decided. There was a delay of 10 days between each FGD. The moderator, a person for writing, and another one for recording were identified. Two senior doctors from our department were assigned for data analysis. A table with 7 chairs was arranged for the moderator and team members. All the data collected were handed over to the team leader after the end of each session. Each session lasted for about 1.5 to 3 hours. We can surely say that the success of our project is the result of teamwork not only among the persons involved in the conduct of the FGD but also among all the participants. Since there are no interventions involved in this research, there is little to worry about the safety aspect of the researcher and participants. But great care was taken to protect the identity of the participants. Our greatest difficulty was in translating the data during publication.

Assessment of patient-reported outcomes is important in any health care intervention. This helps the treating doctor to make necessary modifications in their practices which will ultimately help the community. The regional, cultural, social, and economic status of the patients have a bearing on their level of satisfaction. It is better to develop tools that can be used for various populations. From our experience, we think that FGD is a very effective tool for measuring patient-reported outcomes/satisfaction. It can be conducted with a minimum number of participants. Planning and preparations are less cumbersome. As we are ensuring the homogeneity of the participants, we can get an emic perspective about the subject. Even information about certain sensitive issues can be obtained during FGD. As there are no interventions involved, it is well accepted and cost-effective. We found that patient-based outcomes of TKR differ from the Knee Society Score. Focus group discussion is a simple and surgeon-friendly tool for measuring patient-reported outcomes after TKR.

Patient-based outcome measurements are important for the evaluation of any intervention. Focus group discussion is a simple and effective way to find out the patient-based outcomes. Focus group discussion is a simple and surgeon-friendly tool for measuring patient-reported outcomes after TKR.

Important Points to Be Noted While Planning a Focus Group Discussion

• Decide the number of groups*
• Make sure all participants are homogenous
• Assign the place, date, time of each focus group discussion (FGD)
• Inform the participants early regarding the FGD**
• Find out a moderator who is knowledgeable in the topic and knows the vernacular language
• Ask the moderator to prepare some leading questions***
• Arrange a person for writing and arrange an audiovisual team.

*Better to create small groups and 5 to 6 groups are enough. Too many participants make it difficult to control them during FGD, also the discussion can get going out of context.

**So that they can come on time.

***These questions should be based on the experiences of the moderator and also from the previously published literature about the topic.

Authors’ Note: The corresponding author Balaji Zacharia contributed to conceptualize the idea, helped in collecting data, analyzing, statistics, writing, and editing the manuscript. The coauthors helped in collecting data, analysis, statistics, writing, and editing the manuscript.

We have no conflict of interest for this manuscript and we have not accepted any financial assistance from within or outside of our institution for collecting data, writing the manuscript, and for its publications. This study was approved by the institutional ethics committee of Government Medical College, Kozhikode, Kerala, India. Written informed consent was obtained from the patients for their anonymised information to be published in this article. This article does not contain any studies with human subjects.

Declaration of Conflicting Interests: The author(s) declared no potential conflicts of interest with respect to the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.

Funding: The author(s) received no financial support for the research, authorship, and/or publication of this article.

Grow Your Business

1,400+ easy topics for group discussion with your students, share this article.

Get over 1,000 group discussion topic ideas, and understand the key ways to have productive discussions with your students.

Are you searching for new ways to keep your students on their toes? Sometimes it can feel overwhelming always looking for new, fun, and upbeat ways to keep your students engaged and entertained in your group discussions. 

Helping your students feel compelled to participate in group discussions has proven to be beneficial in more ways than one – besides the fact that it can help strengthen the bonds of your community (whether it be online or in-person), group discussions are an important part of the learning process for students. 

Group discussions facilitate student interactions, helping them learn how to communicate effectively with others. They promote a deeper understanding and help increase long-term information retention. Group discussions can also help increase students’ attention and help maintain their focus by involving them in the learning process. 

In this article, we will discuss why group discussions are so beneficial to the learning environment. We’ve also included some templates with a ton of easy topics for group discussions that can help you build a strong learning environment for your students! 

Related: What Are Learning Communities?

If you know what you are looking for right away, feel free to jump around and explore right away: 

Skip ahead here:

• Benefits of Group Discussion in Online Courses & Communities

Easy Topics for Group Discussion

Gd topics to avoid, how to have a successful group discussion.

• 1400 Group Discussion Topics Categorized

Benefits of Group Discussion in Online Courses & Learning Communities

While we already mentioned some of the major benefits of group discussions, we just want to highlight the importance of group discussions in online courses and communities.

The purpose of having interesting discussion topics in an online course is to provide opportunities for students to interact with each other, the content, and the instructor. 

There are already certain barriers to learning in an online community – such as self-motivation, distractions, and isolation to name a few – which is why it is even more crucial to engage your students in a fun and meaningful way! 

Sometimes it’s hard for more traditional classroom experiences to translate nicely to engaging online learning experiences. Introducing new topics to discuss in a group at the beginning of each class could be the key to making your online course effective. This is because social interactions (especially in the online learning community) foster meaningful connections and involvement between your students. 

Social elements like incorporating interesting topics to discuss in a group complement online courses because they enable social learning , peer-to-peer support, and student-to-instructor support. They also enable students to hold each other accountable for learning goals while creating a sense of community and belonging.

Adding different topics for group discussion in online learning communities is another great and effective way for students to collaborate and connect with one another. A learning community is a shared place for discussion, so why not spice up your interactions by throwing in some thought-provoking and interesting topics to discuss in a group? 

Online vs. in-person group discussion

Now that we’ve covered some of the benefits of group discussions in online courses and communities, let’s discuss whether it is better to have online or in-person group discussions. 

We find purpose and accountability in learning communities, regardless if they are from online or in-person group discussions. The style of traditionally learning in a classroom is currently being sidelined as the online classroom learning style has gained popularity in recent years. However, there are some upsides and downsides to each option, which we will cover. 

Online group discussion

• 27% said they have trust in the knowledge of their peers in an online community.
• 45% said they value diverse opinions. Online communities allow space for a respectful way to learn, and can change the way students see the world. 
• 37% said they appreciate a non-intimidating/judgemental space in an online community. 
• 37% said they value the shared collective experience/pursuit. 
• 52% agree that it’s easier to find others who share interests and passions in a community online vs in-person.
• People can participate from the comfort of their homes or offices – they don’t need to travel to a classroom, meaning there are also no travel costs or facility rental costs.
• Students can join in no matter where they are in the world.
• Participants need to have the correct technology – a computer with a webcam, and typically certain browser configurations. This can limit the population to only people who have this equipment, which narrows down the participant range.
• It is sometimes difficult with the virtual format to capture the richness of people together in a room, reading each other’s body cues and participating in exercises that require more than just speaking back and forth.

In-person group discussion

• Non-verbal cues are a rich data source and contribute to how others may respond when people are in the room together. 
• Can incorporate a wider variety of written and brainstorming exercises such as having students team up and sketch out concepts together. 
• The course instructor can pick up on non-verbal cues and facilitate the conversation more personally.
• There may not be very diverse populations, as people are limited to which area and city the course is being held in.
• Cost is a prohibitive factor to assembling a group – either because of moderator travel costs or facility rental costs.

Ultimately, the structure of the course – whether it is online or in-person – will depend on the nature of the course itself and the environment that the course instructor thinks will be the most beneficial for their students. 

If you are looking for some easy topics, here are a few ideas to get you started.

Favorite Online Resources

The first topic on our list is “What are your favorite online resources?”. This is a great question to get people talking about the different websites and tools that they use on a daily basis. It can also be a great way to find new resources that people may not be aware of. It’s an easy conversation started that can lead to more in-depth topics along the way.

• What is your favorite website or app for travel planning?
• What is your favorite website or app for finding new recipes to try?
• What is your favorite website or app for productivity and organization?
• What is your favorite website for learning new skills or information?

Thoughts On The Internet

If you’re looking for a topic that will get people thinking, then you might want to try “What are your thoughts on the current state of the internet?”. This is a great way to get people to share their thoughts and opinions on the current state of the internet, and it can also be a great way to start a discussion about how the internet can be improved.

• The role of the internet in promoting freedom of speech and censorship
• The funniest memes and internet trends
• How has the internet changed the music industry?
• The role of the internet in creating and fostering online communities
• The role of the internet in education and the future of traditional learning methods

The Impact of Social Media On Our Lives

This is another great topic that can get people thinking and talking. Social media has had a huge impact on our lives, and it’s definitely something worth discussing. It’s a topic that tends to have differing opinions, so the conversation may include many talking points with opportunities to share real-life examples of the impact. You can ask questions referring to what others may have seen on social media like Facebook groups . These groups often have a growing discussion board that can influence opinions. 

• The impact of social media on our communication skills and real-life relationships
• The use of social media for cyberbullying and harassment
• The impact of social media on the economy and job market
• The most absurd social media and internet trends and phenomena

The Pros and Cons of Technology

This is a great topic for discussion, particularly because it’s something that we all use on a daily basis. We rely heavily on technology, so understanding how people view it, both the negative and positive sides, can be quite interesting. It’s also a great way to start a conversation about how we can use technology more effectively, and how we can avoid its negative effects.

• The effects of technology on job security and employment opportunities
• The impact of technology on our ability to communicate and form relationships
• The role of technology in promoting and suppressing privacy and data security
• The effects of technology on our attention spans and memory retention
• The role of technology in promoting and suppressing entrepreneurship and innovation

The Changing Landscape of Education

This is a great topic for discussion, especially if you have an online community full of students or educators. Education is constantly changing, so it’s important to stay up-to-date on the latest trends. This discussion can help people learn about new changes in education, and it can also be a great way to get different perspectives on the issue.

• The impact of technology on the education system and traditional learning methods
• The impact of big data and personalization in education on student privacy and autonomy
• The role of online education and distance learning in the future of education
• The role of education in shaping the future
• The future of virtual reality education

The Importance of Connection

This is a great topic for discussion, particularly in online communities. It can be easy to feel isolated when we’re spending so much time online, so it’s important to find ways to connect with others. This discussion can help people find ways to connect with others, and it can also be a great way to get different perspectives on the issue.

• How can we create a sense of community in our neighborhood?
• How can we support and connect with people who are going through difficult times?
• How can we connect with people with different communication styles?
• How do shared interests foster connections between people?

Things That Inspire Your Creativity

This is a great topic for discussion, particularly in online communities. It can be easy to feel uninspired when we’re spending so much time online, so it’s important to find ways to get our creative juices flowing. This discussion can help people find inspiration, and it can also be a great way to get different perspectives on the issue.

Whatever the context, it is helpful to structure the discussions in a way that defines boundaries for the process and provides some degree of closure within the classroom. Be sure the topics you choose are relevant to your community and that they will promote critical thinking and analysis among your members. With some thoughtful planning, you can use group discussion to build a strong online community .

• The role of positive emotions and happiness in inspiring creativity
• How does culture and diversity influence creativity?
• What is the role of creativity in education?
• What are some common myths about creativity?
• How can creativity be used to solve real-world problems?

“Would you rather” questions

These always make for a great discussion, and sometimes the answers will surprise you.

• Would you rather travel to the past or future?
• Would you rather speak every language or communicate with animals?
• Would you rather go on a beach vacation or a ski vacation?
• Would you rather be invisible or be able to fly?

There are a few topics that you may decide to avoid when having a group discussion. These topics can be controversial, and they can often lead to arguments. Some examples of these topics include:

If you’re not sure whether or not a topic is appropriate for discussion, then it’s always best to err on the side of caution.

Before you start using these topics in your course, how you can approach the group discussion to ensure its success, whether online or in person. Here are a few tips:

Create an inclusive environment

The effective facilitation of a group discussion involves recognizing that there will be many different perspectives and different skills needed to create an inclusive environment. 

In order to do so, it’s important to consider the components of effective group discussions and the conditions that promote small group interactions and engagement. Discussion is a powerful technique for active learning, and a well-facilitated discussion allows students to explore new ideas while recognizing and valuing the contributions of others.

To create an inclusive environment…

• Allow participants to introduce themselves (you can even set up an ice breaker to have pairs of students introduce each other)
• Be clear about group expectations and intentions 
• Use inclusive language 
• Don’t hesitate to ask for clarification if a question or comment is unclear 
• Treat every student with respect and consideration
• Develop an awareness of barriers to learning (cultural, social, personal) 
• Provide sufficient time and space for students to gather their thoughts and contribute to group discussions
• Provide opportunities for participants to get into pairs to share their ideas in a one-on-one setting (some students may be more comfortable with this initially)

Create a process to begin and end the group discussion

To ensure that your group discussion is off to a great start, it’s important to have a plan for the conversation. Think about possibly creating an introduction process. This can be as simple as having everyone introduce themselves and their thoughts on the topic at the beginning of class. 

Have an idea of how you want to wrap up the discussion, especially if there are time constraints. It may be a good idea to summarize the solid points that were brought up throughout the discussion, and praise everyone for participating. This will help to keep the momentum going for the next group discussion, ensuring that your learning community continues to connect with each other.

Make sure everyone has a chance to speak

When leading a group discussion, the one thing you don’t want happening is for one student to monopolize the conversation completely – the benefit of having a group discussion is to listen and hear everyone’s unique perspective on the topic!

One of the most important aspects of a successful group discussion is making sure that everyone has a chance to share their thoughts and opinions. If certain parties are dominating the discussion, actively call on others as you moderate the discussion to give them the floor. You could even go alphabetically. This is especially useful to help engage students who are more shy and would rather not say anything at all. 

Encourage people to ask questions 

A great way to get people talking is to encourage student participation. This helps keep the flow of the conversation steady, as well as actively engaging people to listen and think critically. 

Getting students to ask or write down follow-up questions to share allows them to voice their own thoughts and opinions. It may also be beneficial for the instructor to initiate some questions to help bring out their students’ ideas further.

Have an open mind

In good group discussions, conflicts will sometimes arise. It’s important to remember that not everyone is going to have the same exact opinion as you, and that’s okay. What’s important is that you’re able to listen to other people’s thoughts and perspectives, and have an open mind. 

Keep discussions constructive and positive

At the beginning of each group discussion, clarify the goals of each discussion and establish some of the ground rules for the group.

This can include:

• Allowing all students time to speak
• Sharing personal experiences rather than making general statements about groups of people (stereotyping)
• Encouraging others to add their reactions or ideas to build on someone’s comment
• Keeping discussions on track by listing the questions to cover on the board or in the chat, and summarizing the discussion as it proceeds 

Plan topics for group discussions that will resonate with your students 

When you’re planning your group discussion, make sure to choose topics that will resonate with your community to ensure that the discussion will be engaging and beneficial for everyone involved.

Perhaps at the end of class, you can ask everyone to leave a question that they would like to discuss the next time you all meet together. 

Identify potential problems in group discussions

It’s probable that not all group discussions will go smoothly, depending on the group and the nature of the topic. 

Some potential problems in group discussions include:

• Disengaged students. If you have members who are no longer active in your community, try to engage them by sending them private messages or starting a discussion on a topic that they’re interested in. Also provide opportunities for smaller group discussions. 
• Students who talk too much. Try redirecting the discussion to another person or another topic. Alternatively, you may wish to reframe their comments, making them viable additions to the discussion.
• A discussion that turns into an argument. The course instructor may need to take a strong position as moderator, preventing students from interrupting each other or speaking simultaneously. Also, they could list both sides of the argument, allowing for respectful rebuttals.

Give students feedback 

Let your students know how they did in the group discussion. Offering individual constructive feedback can help your students feel more included and motivated to participate even more during the next group discussion. 

Create discussion forums

Discussion forums are essential to learning communities because they give students a place to keep the conversation going and generate more ideas on the topic. Discussion forums also help foster connection and engagement between your students. 

Related: It’s Time to Tap Into Togetherness with Communities

Creating an Engaging Online Community with Group Discussions

Online communities can be a great way to bring your students together in one place where they can discuss course content, apply their learnings, and ask questions. This also helps you get a pulse check on what your audience wants to learn from you.

When building an online community, it’s important to outline community guidelines —helping to improve communication, avoid conflict, and prevent chaos in your community.

Group discussion can be a great way to build an online community if you can get students talking and thinking about different topics. Just remember to keep an open mind, be respectful, and make sure that everyone has a chance to speak. With these tips, you’ll be well on your way to having a successful group discussion.

If you’re still looking for more ideas for GD topics, keep scrolling! Or try one of our Group Discussion Topic Generators:

• Current Latest Trending Topics for Group Discussion
• Topics for Discussion in English for Esl Students
• Discussion Questions for Students
• Technology Discussion Question Topics
• Globalization Discussion Questions
• Self Esteem Discussion Questions
• Gender Discussion Questions
• Work Life Balance Discussion Questions
• Diversity Discussion Questions
• Self Care Discussion Questions
• Discussion Questions for Middle Schoolers
• Discussion Questions about Identity
• Discussion Questions about Entrepreneurship
• Discussion Questions about Womens Rights
• Group Discussion for Mba Students
• Group Discussion Topics for Mba Hr Students
• Group Discussion Topics for Mba Finance Students

1400+ Group Discussion Topics Categorized

Animal welfare, diversity and inclusion, easy topics.

• Elementary school students (age-related)

English literature

Favorite online resources, fostering good relationships, funny group discussion ideas.

• Health and Fitness
• High school students (age-related)

Interesting

• Kindergarten group discussion topics (age-related)

Personal hygiene

Solving disputes, the changing landscape of education, the impact of social media on our lives, the pros and cons of technology.

• Thoughts on the Internet

Would you rather

Young adult discussion topics.

• What is animal welfare and why is it important?
• How can we promote awareness about animal welfare issues in our communities?
• What role should governments play in protecting animal welfare?
• Should animals have legal rights and protections?
• How can we reduce the environmental impact of animal agriculture while still ensuring animal welfare?
• Should animal testing be banned?
• What is the impact of animal entertainment, such as circuses and zoos, on animal welfare?
• How can we reduce the number of animals used for food, clothing, and other products?
• How can we ensure that animals in research labs are treated ethically and with respect?
• Should we prioritize animal welfare over economic interests in industries such as agriculture and tourism?
• How can we encourage responsible pet ownership and prevent animal neglect and abuse?
• How can we ensure that animals used for human consumption are raised and slaughtered in humane conditions?
• Should we prohibit the breeding of certain breeds of animals for cosmetic purposes?
• How can we reduce the impact of human activity on wildlife habitats?
• Should we restrict the use of animals in sports and other entertainment activities?
• How can we prevent the spread of diseases between animals and humans?
• What is the impact of climate change on animal welfare?
• Should we prohibit the use of animals in military operations and experiments?
• How can we ensure that animals used in educational and scientific exhibits are treated humanely?
• Should we restrict the use of animals in fashion and beauty industries?
• What is the impact of animal trafficking and poaching on animal welfare?
• Should we restrict the use of animals in rodeos and other similar events?
• How can we ensure that animals used for therapy and service purposes are treated ethically?
• Should we ban the use of animals in circuses and other traveling shows?
• How can we prevent animal cruelty and abuse in the food industry?
• What is the impact of animal overpopulation on animal welfare?
• Should we restrict the breeding and sale of exotic animals as pets?
• How can we prevent animal cruelty in the entertainment industry, such as in films and television shows?
• Should we prohibit the use of animals in product testing for cosmetics and personal care products?
• How can we ensure that animals used for transportation are treated humanely?
• Should we restrict the breeding and sale of animals for sport hunting?
• How can we prevent animal cruelty in puppy mills and other large-scale breeding operations?
• Should we restrict the use of animals in scientific research and testing?
• How can we prevent animal cruelty in the fur and leather industries?
• Should we restrict the use of animals in tourism and entertainment activities, such as elephant rides and swimming with dolphins?
• How can we ensure that animals used for religious practices are treated humanely?
• Should we restrict the use of animals in pest control?
• How can we prevent animal cruelty and abuse in the entertainment industry, such as in theme parks and water parks?
• Should we restrict the use of animals in hunting and fishing for sport?
• How can we ensure that animals used for food are raised and slaughtered humanely in small-scale farming operations?
• What is the impact of factory farming on animal welfare?
• Should we restrict the breeding and sale of animals for use in laboratory testing?
• How can we prevent animal cruelty and abuse in the pet industry, such as in pet stores and breeding operations?
• Should we restrict the use of animals in traditional medicine practices?
• How can we ensure that animals used for wool and silk production are treated humanely?
• What is the impact of deforestation on animal welfare?
• What is marketing and why is it important?
• How can marketing help businesses connect with customers?
• What are some common marketing strategies used by businesses today?
• How can businesses effectively use social media for marketing?
• Should businesses focus more on digital marketing or traditional marketing methods?
• How can businesses effectively use email marketing to reach customers?
• What is the role of customer research in marketing?
• How can businesses effectively use influencer marketing?
• Should businesses focus more on B2B or B2C marketing?
• How can businesses effectively use content marketing to build their brand?
• How can businesses effectively use search engine optimization (SEO) to improve their online visibility?
• How can businesses measure the success of their marketing campaigns?
• What is the impact of customer reviews on marketing?
• How can businesses effectively use video marketing to engage with customers?
• Should businesses focus more on inbound marketing or outbound marketing strategies?
• How can businesses effectively use paid advertising, such as Google Ads and Facebook Ads?
• What is the role of storytelling in marketing?
• How can businesses effectively use mobile marketing to reach customers on-the-go?
• How can businesses use gamification in their marketing strategies?
• How can businesses effectively use location-based marketing?
• Should businesses focus more on direct marketing or indirect marketing strategies?
• How can businesses effectively use customer feedback to improve their marketing efforts?
• What is the impact of influencer fraud on influencer marketing?
• How can businesses effectively use affiliate marketing?
• How can businesses effectively use customer segmentation in their marketing strategies?
• How can businesses effectively use referral marketing to grow their customer base?
• What is the role of experiential marketing in today’s business world?
• How can businesses effectively use chatbots in their marketing strategies?
• Should businesses focus more on global or local marketing strategies?
• How can businesses effectively use customer retention strategies in their marketing efforts?
• What is the impact of customer data privacy on marketing?
• How can businesses effectively use loyalty programs in their marketing efforts?
• How can businesses effectively use augmented reality in their marketing strategies?
• What is the impact of customer experience on marketing?
• How can businesses effectively use customer service as a marketing tool?
• How can businesses use user-generated content in their marketing efforts?
• What is the role of personalization in marketing?
• How can businesses effectively use chat marketing in their strategies?
• How can businesses effectively use artificial intelligence in their marketing efforts?
• Should businesses focus more on brand awareness or lead generation in their marketing strategies?
• How can businesses effectively use native advertising in their marketing strategies?
• How can businesses effectively use retargeting in their marketing efforts?
• What is the role of video ads in marketing?
• How can businesses effectively use customer advocacy in their marketing strategies?
• How can businesses use data analytics to improve their marketing efforts?
• How can businesses effectively use social listening to improve their marketing strategies?
• Should businesses focus more on emotional marketing or rational marketing strategies?
• How can businesses effectively use chatbots for customer service and support?
• What is the role of mobile apps in marketing?
• How can businesses effectively use customer reviews in their marketing efforts?
• How can businesses use memes and viral marketing in their strategies?
• How can businesses effectively use podcast marketing to reach new audiences?
• Should businesses focus more on omnichannel or multichannel marketing strategies?
• How can businesses effectively use direct mail marketing in the digital age?
• What is the impact of customer experience on brand loyalty?
• What is sales and why is it important for businesses?
• What are some common sales techniques used by sales professionals today?
• How can businesses effectively train their sales teams?
• What is the role of customer relationship management (CRM) in sales?
• How can businesses effectively use data analytics to improve their sales efforts?
• Should businesses focus more on inbound or outbound sales strategies?
• What is the role of customer service in sales?
• How can businesses effectively use sales automation tools?
• How can businesses effectively use social selling to connect with customers?
• What is the impact of customer retention on sales?
• How can businesses effectively use referral selling to grow their customer base?
• Should businesses focus more on product knowledge or customer knowledge in their sales efforts?
• What is the role of storytelling in sales?
• How can businesses effectively use video selling to engage with customers?
• How can businesses effectively use sales forecasting to plan for the future?
• How can businesses effectively use sales enablement tools?
• Should businesses focus more on B2B or B2C sales strategies?
• How can businesses effectively use account-based selling to target specific customers?
• What is the impact of customer experience on sales?
• How can businesses effectively use upselling and cross-selling techniques?
• Should businesses focus more on inbound or outbound prospecting strategies?
• How can businesses effectively use customer feedback to improve their sales efforts?
• What is the role of emotional intelligence in sales?
• How can businesses effectively use value-based selling techniques?
• How can businesses effectively use objection handling techniques in their sales efforts?
• Should businesses focus more on relationship selling or transactional selling?
• How can businesses effectively use storytelling in their sales pitches?
• What is the impact of social proof on sales?
• How can businesses effectively use customer personas in their sales efforts?
• Should businesses focus more on inside sales or outside sales strategies?
• What is the role of empathy in sales?
• How can businesses effectively use competitive analysis in their sales efforts?
• How can businesses effectively use social media for sales?
• Should businesses focus more on product selling or solution selling?
• How can businesses effectively use customer advocacy in their sales strategies?
• What is the role of sales coaching in developing sales professionals?
• How can businesses effectively use customer success stories in their sales pitches?
• Should businesses focus more on consultative selling or transactional selling?
• What is the impact of sales process optimization on sales?
• How can businesses effectively use customer segmentation in their sales efforts?
• How can businesses effectively use persuasive language in their sales pitches?
• Should businesses focus more on inbound or outbound lead generation strategies?
• What is the role of social listening in sales?
• How can businesses effectively use sales funnels to guide customers through the sales process?
• How can businesses effectively use customer data to personalize their sales pitches?
• Should businesses focus more on account management or new business development in their sales efforts?
• What is the impact of sales productivity on overall business success?
• How can businesses effectively use sales promotions to drive sales?
• Should businesses focus more on online sales or offline sales strategies?
• What is the role of customer experience in post-sales support?
• How can businesses effectively use sales contests to motivate sales teams?
• Should businesses focus more on sales specialization or generalization?
• What is the impact of sales pipeline management on sales success?
• How can businesses effectively use email marketing for sales?
• How can businesses effectively use virtual selling in the digital age?
• Should businesses focus more on lead qualification or lead generation in their sales efforts?
• What is the role of market research in sales?
• How can businesses effectively use account-based marketing to support their sales efforts?
• How can businesses effectively use storytelling in their sales follow-up efforts?
• Should businesses focus more on price-based selling or value-based selling?
• What is the impact of sales forecasting accuracy on overall business success?
• How can businesses effectively use customer surveys to improve their sales efforts?
• Should businesses focus more on product differentiation or brand differentiation in their sales strategies?
• What is the role of networking in sales?
• How can businesses effectively use sales collateral to support their sales efforts?
• Should businesses focus more on lead nurturing or lead conversion in their sales strategies?
• What is the impact of sales culture on sales success?
• How can businesses effectively use customer testimonials to support their sales efforts?
• Should businesses focus more on sales specialization or cross-functional collaboration?
• What is the role of sales performance metrics in sales management?
• How can businesses effectively use online advertising for sales?
• Should businesses focus more on inbound or outbound account-based marketing strategies?
• What is the impact of product packaging on sales?
• How can businesses effectively use sales incentives to motivate their sales teams?
• Should businesses focus more on inside sales or field sales strategies?
• What is the role of product demos in sales?
• How can businesses effectively use content marketing for sales?
• Should businesses focus more on product features or customer benefits in their sales pitches?
• What is the impact of sales coaching on sales performance?
• How can businesses effectively use lead scoring to prioritize their sales efforts?
• Should businesses focus more on sales specialization or sales generalization?
• What is the role of sales territories in sales management?
• Should businesses focus more on referral selling or cold calling in their sales strategies?
• What is the impact of sales technology on sales productivity?
• How can businesses effectively use chatbots for sales?
• Should businesses focus more on relationship building or closing techniques in their sales efforts?
• What is the role of sales incentives in improving customer loyalty?
• How can businesses effectively use sales gamification to engage their sales teams?
• Should businesses focus more on customer acquisition or customer retention in their sales strategies?
• What is the impact of sales training on sales performance?
• How can businesses effectively use customer success stories to support their sales efforts?
• The role of art in society
• The impact of technology on contemporary art
• The evolution of art throughout history
• The future of art and technology
• The Influence of culture on Art
• The importance of art education
• The impact of public art on communities
• The power of public art in creating social change
• The value of art in mental health and wellbeing
• The role of Museums in preserving art history
• The relationship between art and politics
• The impact of globalization on art
• The Influence of religion on Art
• The role of the artist in society
• The ethics of art censorship
• The power of art to create empathy
• The impact of art on social justice movements
• The relationship between art and science
• The role of art in personal expression
• The evolution of street art and graffiti
• The impact of art on urban spaces
• The influence of art on popular culture
• The role of art in healing trauma
• The importance of art therapy
• The role of art in preserving cultural heritage
• The impact of art on the economy
• The future of virtual reality art
• The ethics of art forgery and plagiarism
• The power of art to bring people together
• The role of art in environmental activism
• The impact of art on tourism
• The influence of art on fashion
• The role of art in education
• The impact of art on advertising
• The relationship between art and literature
• The evolution of art movements throughout history
• The impact of color theory on art
• The power of art to convey emotions
• The role of art in documenting history
• The influence of art on interior design
• The impact of art on cultural identity
• The role of art in social media
• The ethics of cultural appropriation in art
• The role of art in protest movements
• The power of art to promote diversity and inclusion
• The impact of art on fashion photography
• The role of art in community development
• The influence of architecture on art
• The impact of art on fashion design
• The role of art in marketing and advertising
• The ethics of graffiti art and vandalism
• The power of art to tell personal stories
• The influence of art on theater and performance
• The role of art in the digital age
• The impact of art on video game design
• The future of augmented reality in art
• The role of art in political propaganda
• The ethics of art ownership and copyright
• The power of art to challenge societal norms
• The impact of art on fashion illustration
• The role of art in branding and identity
• The influence of music on art
• The impact of art on graphic design
• The role of art in public speaking and presentations
• The ethics of public art and community engagement
• The power of art to inspire creativity
• The impact of art on product design
• The role of art in the beauty industry
• The influence of nature on art
• The impact of art on animation and film
• The role of art in spiritual and religious expression
• The ethics of art as a commodity
• The power of art to promote self-reflection
• The influence of art on product packaging
• The role of art in branding and marketing
• The impact of art on fashion advertising
• The future of art in artificial intelligence
• The role of art in video production
• The influence of art on industrial design
• The impact of art on public relations
• The role of art in visual storytelling
• The ethics of street art and property rights
• The power of art to promote cultural understanding
• The impact of art on web design
• The role of art in event planning
• The influence of art on packaging design
• The impact of art on interior decorating
• The role of art in journalism and news reporting
• The ethics of cultural heritage preservation and restoration
• The power of art to convey social commentary
• The influence of art on fashion accessories
• The impact of art on architecture and building design
• The role of art in fashion styling and image consulting
• The future of art in virtual and augmented reality
• The ethics of art and cultural sensitivity
• The power of art to promote social change and activism
• The impact of art on product branding and marketing
• The role of art in international diplomacy and relations.
• What are some ways to overcome shyness or social anxiety and connect with others?
• How can we build stronger relationships with our family members?
• What are some effective ways to communicate and connect with coworkers?
• How can we create a sense of community in our neighborhoods?
• What are some ways to connect with people who have different cultural backgrounds?
• How can we use social media to connect with others in a meaningful way?
• How can we deepen our friendships and maintain strong connections with people?
• What are some ways to connect with people who share our interests or passions?
• What are some ways to build trust and create a safe space for sharing with others?
• How can we be more empathetic and understanding in our interactions with others?
• What are some ways to connect with people who have different political views?
• How can we create a sense of belonging in groups or organizations?
• What are some ways to connect with people in our local community?
• How can we be more vulnerable and open in our relationships with others?
• What are some ways to connect with people in different age groups?
• How can we create a supportive environment for sharing personal experiences?
• What are some ways to connect with people in different professions or industries?
• How can we connect with people who have different lifestyles or values?
• How can we practice active listening and show genuine interest in others?
• What are some ways to connect with people through volunteering or community service?
• How can we connect with people through shared hobbies or activities?
• How can we connect with people who are geographically distant?
• What are some ways to build positive relationships with our coworkers?
• How can we connect with people who have different communication styles?
• What are some ways to connect with people from different socioeconomic backgrounds?
• How can we connect with people who have different religious or spiritual beliefs?
• How can we connect with people who are experiencing loneliness or isolation?
• What are some ways to connect with people who speak a different language?
• How can we connect with people who are part of marginalized communities?
• What are some ways to connect with people through acts of kindness or generosity?
• How can we connect with people who have different personality types?
• How can we build stronger relationships with our romantic partners?
• What are some ways to connect with people who have different learning styles?
• How can we connect with people through shared goals or aspirations?
• How can we connect with people who have different abilities or disabilities?
• What are some ways to connect with people who have different life experiences?
• How can we build stronger relationships with our children or parents?
• How can we connect with people who have different communication barriers?
• What are some ways to connect with people through shared values or beliefs?
• How can we build stronger relationships with our friends?
• How can we connect with people who have different senses of humor?
• How can we connect with people who have different dietary preferences?
• What are some ways to connect with people through shared music or art?
• How can we connect with people who have different opinions on controversial issues?
• How can we build stronger relationships with our mentors or mentees?
• How can we connect with people who have different relationship styles?
• How can we connect with people who have different career goals or aspirations?
• What are some ways to connect with people through shared travel experiences?
• The role of cooking in cultural identity and tradition
• The impact of technology and innovation on cooking techniques and recipes
• The importance of using fresh, whole ingredients in cooking and meal preparation
• The benefits and challenges of cooking with different diets, such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, etc.
• The role of cooking in building community and relationships
• The history and evolution of cooking methods and cuisine
• The benefits of cooking with family and friends, and the role of cooking in bringing people together
• The impact of food waste and sustainability on cooking and meal planning
• The importance of cooking skills and meal planning for healthy eating and living
• The role of cooking in stress relief and self-care
• The benefits and challenges of cooking with limited time and resources
• The impact of social media and popular culture on cooking trends and styles
• The importance of food presentation and plating in cooking and meal presentation
• The benefits of cooking with seasonal and local ingredients
• The role of cooking in economic and financial well-being, including meal planning and budgeting
• The impact of cultural exchange and fusion in cooking and cuisine
• The importance of knife skills and kitchen safety in cooking
• The benefits and challenges of cooking for large groups and events
• The role of cooking in exploring and understanding other cultures through food
• The impact of food allergies and intolerances on cooking and meal planning
• The importance of experimentation and creativity in cooking and recipe development
• The benefits and challenges of cooking for one or cooking solo
• The role of cooking in maintaining and improving mental and physical health
• The impact of cooking and food education in schools and communities
• The importance of cooking as a lifelong skill for personal and professional development.
• The role of nature and the great outdoors in inspiring creativity
• The impact of travel and new experiences on creativity and imagination
• The effects of music, art, and literature on the imagination and creative expression
• The impact of play and unstructured time on imaginative thinking and creative problem solving
• The effects of mindfulness and meditation on creative thought and inspiration
• The role of curiosity and exploration in stimulating creative ideas and solutions
• The impact of social and cultural diversity on creative expression and innovation
• The effects of collaboration and teamwork in inspiring creative solutions and ideas
• The role of failure and setbacks in fostering creative growth and resilience
• The impact of quiet time and solitude on the creative process and imaginative thinking
• The effects of playfulness and humor on creative expression and problem solving
• The role of storytelling and oral traditions in inspiring imaginative thinking and creative expression
• The impact of physical activity and exercise on the imagination and creative thinking
• The effects of mindfulness and being present in the moment on the imagination and creative thinking
• The role of sleep and rest in fostering creative ideas and inspiration
• The impact of surrounding oneself with positive and supportive people on creative expression and problem solving
• The effects of taking breaks and allowing the mind to wander on the imagination and creative process
• The role of creating a supportive and stimulating physical environment for creativity
• The impact of taking on new challenges and learning new skills on imaginative thinking and creative expression
• The effects of connecting with one’s passions and personal interests on creative expression and problem solving
• The role of dreaming and the subconscious mind in inspiring creative ideas and solutions
• The impact of overcoming obstacles and challenges on creative growth and resilience
• The effects of nature and exposure to the elements on creative inspiration and problem solving
• The role of experimentation and trying new things in fostering creative expression and innovative thinking.
• What is creativity and how can we define it?
• What are the benefits of creativity in our personal and professional lives?
• How can we encourage creativity in the workplace or in school?
• How can we overcome creative blocks and generate new ideas?
• What role does environment play in fostering creativity?
• How can technology be used to enhance creativity?
• How can we balance structure and freedom to encourage creativity?
• How can different forms of art inspire creativity in other areas of our lives?
• How can collaboration lead to more creative ideas?
• How can we measure creativity and its impact?
• How can we use creativity to improve mental health and well-being?
• What are some examples of innovative and creative companies?
• How can we use creativity to promote sustainability and environmentalism?
• How can we use creativity to improve communication and empathy?
• How can we incorporate creativity into our daily routines?
• What are some creative ways to approach problem-solving?
• How can we overcome fear and take risks in our creative pursuits?
• How can we use creativity to challenge and disrupt the status quo?
• How can we use creativity to build community and bring people together?
• What are some common obstacles to creativity and how can we overcome them?
• How can we use creativity to express ourselves and our identities?
• How can we use creativity to foster innovation and entrepreneurship?
• How can we use creativity to improve our physical health and fitness?
• How can we use creativity to bridge cultural and social divides?
• How can we use creativity to explore and understand complex ideas?
• What are some examples of successful creative projects or initiatives?
• How can we use creativity to drive social and political change?
• How can we use creativity to improve our relationships with others?
• How can we use creativity to create memorable and impactful experiences?
• How can we use creativity to inspire and motivate ourselves and others?
• How can we use creativity to preserve and celebrate cultural traditions?
• How can we use creativity to foster critical thinking and problem-solving skills?
• How can we use creativity to create a better future for ourselves and others?
• How can we use creativity to explore and express our emotions?
• How can we use creativity to promote empathy and understanding?
• How can we use creativity to create more inclusive and equitable societies?
• How can we use creativity to improve our cognitive and intellectual abilities?
• How can we use creativity to promote self-discovery and personal growth?
• How can we use creativity to create more meaningful and fulfilling lives?
• How can we use creativity to connect with nature and the environment?
• How can we use creativity to promote positive social and cultural change?
• How can we use creativity to promote innovation and progress in different fields?
• How can we use creativity to improve our ability to adapt to change?
• How can we use creativity to create new opportunities and possibilities?
• How can we use creativity to overcome adversity and difficult circumstances?
• How can we use creativity to promote healing and recovery from trauma?
• The impact of implicit biases and stereotypes on diversity and inclusion
• The importance of allyship and solidarity in promoting diversity and inclusion
• The benefits and challenges of workplace diversity and inclusion initiatives
• The role of education and awareness in promoting diversity and inclusion
• The impact of historical and systemic discrimination on diversity and inclusion
• The benefits and challenges of actively seeking out diverse perspectives and experiences
• The importance of embracing and celebrating cultural differences in promoting diversity and inclusion
• The role of diversity and inclusion in personal and professional development
• The impact of media representation and media literacy on diversity and inclusion
• The benefits and challenges of actively addressing privilege and power dynamics in promoting diversity and inclusion
• The importance of open-mindedness and empathy in promoting diversity and inclusion
• The role of language and communication in promoting diversity and inclusion
• The impact of intersectionality on diversity and inclusion
• The benefits and challenges of diversity and inclusion in community organizations and activism
• The importance of actively promoting and advocating for diversity and inclusion in all areas of life
• The role of technology and innovation in promoting diversity and inclusion
• The impact of globalization and cultural exchange on diversity and inclusion
• The benefits and challenges of promoting diversity and inclusion in education
• The importance of encouraging diverse leadership and representation in all industries
• The role of diverse representation in politics and government in promoting diversity and inclusion
• The impact of personal experiences and narratives on diversity and inclusion
• The benefits and challenges of creating inclusive and welcoming spaces for all individuals
• The importance of examining and addressing personal biases in promoting diversity and inclusion
• The role of diversity and inclusion in promoting overall equality and justice
• The impact of individual actions and choices on promoting diversity and inclusion in communities and society.
• The benefits of daily exercise
• Ways to reduce stress
• The importance of good sleep
• The impact of social media on relationships
• Budgeting and saving money
• The benefits of volunteering
• The effects of technology on work-life balance
• Healthy eating habits
• The benefits of traveling
• The importance of hydration
• The impact of the internet on communication
• The benefits of mindfulness and meditation
• Time management strategies
• The importance of setting goals
• The impact of technology on education
• The benefits of reading
• The importance of self-care
• The effects of social media on self-esteem
• The benefits of spending time in nature
• The importance of emotional intelligence
• The impact of social media on politics
• The benefits of team sports
• The importance of friendships
• The effects of technology on personal relationships
• The benefits of public speaking
• The importance of positive thinking
• The impact of social media on mental health
• The benefits of community service
• The importance of good leadership
• The effects of technology on privacy
• The benefits of networking
• The importance of good communication skills
• The impact of social media on body image
• The benefits of continuous learning
• The importance of time with family
• The effects of technology on relationships with others
• The benefits of having a support system
• The importance of forgiveness
• The impact of social media on personal branding
• The benefits of creativity and innovation
• The importance of public speaking skills
• The effects of technology on productivity
• The benefits of being organized
• The importance of taking breaks
• The impact of social media on personal relationships
• The benefits of spending time alone
• The importance of resilience
• The effects of technology on memory retention
• The benefits of public speaking and presentation skills
• The importance of work-life balance

Elementary school students (age related)

• The importance of kindness and empathy
• The benefits of outdoor play
• The role of imagination in creativity
• The importance of eating healthy food
• The benefits of having a positive attitude
• The role of teamwork in solving problems
• The importance of good hygiene
• The benefits of physical activity
• The role of honesty in building trust
• The importance of helping others
• The benefits of being grateful
• The role of perseverance in achieving goals
• The importance of being environmentally responsible
• The benefits of creativity and self-expression
• The role of cooperation in friendships
• The importance of good manners and etiquette
• The benefits of reading and learning
• The role of positive self-talk in building confidence
• The importance of empathy and understanding towards others
• The benefits of kindness and compassion
• The role of friendship in building strong relationships
• The importance of being safe in daily life
• The benefits of laughter and humor
• The role of respect in building strong relationships
• The importance of taking care of one’s body
• The role of teamwork in group activities
• The importance of being responsible and reliable
• The benefits of practicing gratitude
• The role of patience in achieving success
• The importance of using one’s imagination
• The benefits of creative problem solving
• The role of resilience in overcoming challenges
• The benefits of expressing oneself through art and music
• The role of empathy in developing strong relationships
• The importance of positive self-image
• The benefits of practicing forgiveness
• The role of trust in building strong relationships
• The importance of healthy sleep habits
• The benefits of teamwork and cooperation
• The role of responsibility in daily life
• The importance of positive role models
• The benefits of physical activity and exercise
• The role of goal setting in personal development
• The importance of being environmentally conscious
• The benefits of helping others and giving back
• The role of good communication in resolving conflicts
• The importance of healthy boundaries in relationships
• The benefits of practicing empathy and compassion.
• Who is your favorite English author and why?
• Can literature influence society and culture?
• How has English literature evolved over the years?
• Is it necessary to have a degree in English literature to appreciate it?
• Is the study of English literature relevant in today’s world?
• Should English literature be taught in schools?
• What is your favorite English novel and why?
• Can literature be used as a form of escapism?
• Is it important for authors to have personal experiences to write good literature?
• Is it necessary for authors to write in a particular style?
• Can literature be used to understand different cultures and perspectives?
• Is it important for literature to have a moral message?
• Is it necessary for literature to be entertaining?
• Should literature be judged on its literary merit or popularity?
• Can literature be used to promote social change?
• Is it necessary for literature to reflect real-life issues?
• Is the literary canon too focused on white male authors?
• Can literature be considered a reflection of society?
• Is it necessary for authors to have a particular writing process?
• Can literature be used to improve empathy and emotional intelligence?
• Should literature be used in therapy?
• Is it important for literature to be historically accurate?
• Is it necessary for literature to be timeless?
• Is it important for literature to be relatable?
• Is it necessary for literature to have a plot?
• Can literature be considered a form of art?
• Is it important for literature to be accessible to all?
• Is the use of symbolism in literature important?
• Can literature be used to improve language skills?
• Should literature be free from censorship?
• Is it important for literature to be culturally diverse?
• Can literature be used to understand human nature?
• Is it necessary for literature to have a moral lesson?
• Is it important for literature to be optimistic?
• Can literature be used to explore human emotions and relationships?
• Is it necessary for literature to have a happy ending?
• Should literature be used to inspire social activism?
• Can literature be used to educate people about historical events?
• Is it necessary for literature to have a protagonist and antagonist?
• Should literature be used to teach critical thinking?
• Is it necessary for literature to have a clear message?
• Should authors be held responsible for the messages in their literature?
• Can literature be used to explore political ideologies?
• Is it necessary for literature to have a realistic portrayal of characters?
• Can literature be used to explore the meaning of life?
• Is it important for literature to be unique and original?
• Can literature be used to explore the human psyche?
• Is it necessary for literature to have a specific genre?
• Should literature be used to explore controversial topics?
• Can literature be used to understand the past and predict the future?
• Can literature be used to promote tolerance and understanding?
• Should literature be used to challenge societal norms?
• Can literature be used to teach empathy and compassion?
• Is it necessary for literature to have a specific structure?
• Can literature be used to explore philosophical ideas?
• Should literature be used to explore the supernatural?
• Is it necessary for literature to have a resolution?
• Can literature be used to explore the mysteries of the universe?
• Should literature be used to explore the absurdities of life?
• Can literature be used to explore the human condition?
• Is it necessary for literature to have a hero’s journey?
• The most useful online resources for students
• The best online resources for learning a new skill
• Online resources for remote work and collaboration
• Online resources for mental health and wellness
• The most helpful online resources for cooking and recipe ideas
• The most informative online resources for current events and news
• Online resources for budgeting and personal finance management
• The most entertaining online resources for movies and TV shows
• The best online resources for fitness and exercise inspiration
• The most helpful online resources for travel and adventure planning
• The most useful online resources for job search and career development
• The most informative online resources for science and technology news
• Online resources for self-improvement and personal growth
• The most entertaining online resources for music and concerts
• The most helpful online resources for shopping and fashion tips
• The most informative online resources for sports news and analysis
• The most useful online resources for language learning
• The best online resources for art and design inspiration
• The most helpful online resources for home improvement and DIY projects
• The most informative online resources for political news and analysis
• Online resources for spiritual growth and wellness
• The most entertaining online resources for comedy and humor
• The most useful online resources for car and vehicle maintenance
• The best online resources for gardening and horticulture tips
• The most helpful online resources for pet care and animal welfare
• What is your go-to website for news and current events?
• What is your favorite social media platform and why?
• Do you have a favorite website or app for productivity or organization? If so, what is it?
• What is your favorite website or app for entertainment?
• Do you have a favorite website or app for staying healthy or fit? If so, what is it?
• What is your favorite website or app for online shopping?
• Do you have a favorite website or app for travel planning? If so, what is it?
• What is your favorite website or app for booking events or activities?
• Do you have a favorite website or app for language learning? If so, what is it?
• What is your favorite website or app for music streaming?
• Do you have a favorite website or app for discovering new books to read? If so, what is it?
• What is your favorite website or app for watching movies or TV shows?
• Do you have a favorite website or app for connecting with friends or family online? If so, what is it?
• What is your favorite website or app for creating and sharing videos?
• Do you have a favorite website or app for discovering new podcasts? If so, what is it?
• What is your favorite website or app for finding and booking local services, such as haircuts or massages?
• Do you have a favorite website or app for finding and booking travel accommodations? If so, what is it?
• What is your favorite website or app for online banking?
• Do you have a favorite website or app for finding and booking flights? If so, what is it?
• What is your favorite website or app for finding and booking rental cars?
• Do you have a favorite website or app for managing your finances or investments? If so, what is it?
• What is your favorite website or app for job searching and career development?
• Do you have a favorite website or app for learning about new technology or gadgets? If so, what is it?
• What is your favorite website or app for discovering new podcasts? If so, what is it?
• Do you have a favorite website or app for discovering and booking local events, such as concerts or festivals? If so, what is it?
• What is your favorite website or app for finding and booking fitness classes or workouts?
• Do you have a favorite website or app for finding and booking beauty services, such as manicures or facials? If so, what is it?
• What is your favorite website or app for staying up-to-date on pop culture?
• Do you have a favorite website or app for finding and booking outdoor activities, such as hiking or kayaking? If so, what is it?
• What is your favorite website or app for learning about mental health and wellness?
• Do you have a favorite website or app for finding and booking volunteer opportunities? If so, what is it?
• What is your favorite website or app for discovering and booking travel experiences, such as tours or cultural activities?
• Do you have a favorite website or app for finding and booking pet services, such as dog walking or pet grooming? If so, what is it?
• What is your favorite website or app for finding and booking home services, such as cleaning or repairs?
• Do you have a favorite website or app for finding and booking outdoor adventure experiences
• The importance of effective communication in fostering good relationships
• The benefits and challenges of setting and maintaining healthy boundaries in relationships
• The role of trust and honesty in fostering good relationships
• The impact of emotional intelligence on fostering good relationships
• The benefits and challenges of active listening and empathy in relationships
• The importance of mutual respect and understanding in fostering good relationships
• The role of shared values and interests in fostering good relationships
• The impact of past experiences and traumas on fostering good relationships
• The benefits and challenges of overcoming conflicts and resolving disputes in relationships
• The importance of maintaining individual autonomy and independence in relationships
• The role of compromise and negotiation in fostering good relationships
• The impact of effective time management and prioritization on fostering good relationships
• The benefits and challenges of managing expectations and setting realistic goals in relationships
• The importance of forgiveness and letting go in fostering good relationships
• The role of self-awareness and self-reflection in fostering good relationships
• The impact of social and cultural norms on fostering good relationships
• The benefits and challenges of actively expressing gratitude and appreciation in relationships
• The importance of physical and emotional intimacy in fostering good relationships
• The role of transparency and open-mindedness in fostering good relationships
• The impact of personal growth and development on fostering good relationships
• The benefits and challenges of fostering good relationships with in-laws and extended family members
• The importance of supporting and encouraging personal growth and success in relationships
• The role of compromise and compromise in fostering good relationships
• The impact of technology and social media on fostering good relationships
• The benefits and challenges of promoting honesty, vulnerability, and authenticity in fostering good relationships.
• The funniest movies and TV shows of all time
• The most ridiculous fashion trends in history
• The funniest jokes and puns you’ve ever heard
• The most embarrassing moments you’ve experienced
• The funniest pranks you’ve played or seen
• The most ridiculous celebrity gossip and rumors
• The funniest accents and impressions you can do
• The most ridiculous names you’ve heard
• The funniest autocorrect and typo fails
• The most bizarre conspiracy theories you’ve heard
• The most ridiculous superstitions and beliefs
• The funniest quotes from comedians and celebrities
• The most embarrassing personal habits you’ve noticed in others
• The funniest animals and their antics
• The most ridiculous trends and fads from your childhood
• The funniest bloopers and outtakes from movies and TV shows
• The most absurd laws and regulations you’ve heard of
• The funniest jokes about different countries and cultures
• The most ridiculous tech fails and glitches
• The funniest nicknames and pet names you’ve heard
• The most absurd celebrity interviews and appearances
• The funniest parodies and mock commercials
• The most ridiculous new year’s resolutions you’ve heard
• The funniest pick-up lines and one-liners you’ve heard.
• The most absurd internet challenges and trends
• The funniest celebrity impressions and parodies
• The most ridiculous product inventions and infomercials
• The funniest jokes about different professions
• The most absurd news headlines and articles
• The funniest jokes about different languages and accents
• The most ridiculous tourist attractions and roadside attractions
• The funniest jokes about different cultures and customs
• The most absurd fashion and beauty trends and products
• The funniest jokes about different types of food
• The most ridiculous wedding and baby shower trends
• The funniest jokes about different types of sports
• The most absurd reality TV shows and competitions
• The funniest jokes about different types of hobbies and interests
• The most ridiculous historical events and figures
• The funniest jokes about different types of music and musicians
• The most absurd TV and movie spin-off shows and sequels
• The funniest jokes about different types of relationships and dating
• The most ridiculous beauty and grooming products and rituals
• The funniest jokes about different types of transportation
• The most absurd urban legends and ghost stories
• The funniest jokes about different types of weather and natural disasters
• The most ridiculous fashion and beauty mishaps and fails
• The funniest jokes about different types of pets and animals
• The most absurd holiday and seasonal traditions and customs
• The funniest jokes about different types of technology and gadgets
• The most ridiculous business and marketing strategies and campaigns
• The funniest jokes about different types of health and wellness practices
• The most absurd historical and scientific discoveries and theories
• The funniest jokes about different types of entertainment and media
• The most ridiculous personal and lifestyle trends and fads
• The funniest jokes about different types of fashion and beauty
• The most absurd political and social movements and issues
• The funniest jokes about different types of art and creativity
• The most ridiculous environmental and sustainability efforts and causes
• The funniest jokes about different types of travel and tourism
• The funniest jokes about different types of education and learning
• The most ridiculous personal and social norms and expectations
• The funniest jokes about different types of work and careers
• The most absurd philosophical and spiritual beliefs and practices
• The funniest jokes about different types of history and heritage
• The most ridiculous conspiracy theories and mysteries
• The funniest jokes about different types of food and drink
• The most absurd personal and social quirks and idiosyncrasies
• The funniest jokes about different types of nature and the outdoors
• The most ridiculous personal and social insecurities and anxieties

Health and fitness

• The impact of technology and innovation on health and fitness practices
• The importance of a balanced diet and nutrition for overall health and well-being
• The benefits and challenges of incorporating physical activity into a busy lifestyle
• The role of genetics and family history in health and fitness
• The impact of stress and mental health on physical health and well-being
• The benefits and challenges of mindfulness and meditation in promoting health and fitness
• The importance of sleep for overall health and fitness
• The role of community and social support in health and fitness practices
• The impact of technology and screen time on physical and mental health
• The benefits and challenges of outdoor and environmental fitness
• The importance of injury prevention and recovery in fitness and physical activity
• The role of fitness and physical activity in managing and preventing chronic conditions
• The impact of cultural and societal influences on health and fitness practices and beliefs
• The benefits and challenges of strength training and weightlifting for health and fitness
• The importance of individualized and customized fitness plans for personal health goals
• The role of health and fitness in personal and professional development
• The impact of climate change and the environment on health and fitness
• The benefits and challenges of group fitness classes and training programs
• The importance of mental health and body image in overall health and fitness
• The role of health and fitness in disease prevention and management
• The impact of food culture and food industry on health and fitness
• The benefits and challenges of performance-enhancing drugs and supplements in fitness
• The importance of hydration and fluid intake for health and fitness
• The role of health and fitness in promoting overall happiness and well-being
• The impact of international travel and relocation on health and fitness practices and habits.

High school students (age related)

• The impact of social media on society
• The importance of diversity and inclusion
• The benefits of college education
• The role of technology in shaping the future
• The impact of climate change
• The importance of self-care and mental health
• The benefits of volunteering and community service
• The role of critical thinking in problem solving
• The impact of politics on society
• The importance of good time management
• The role of teamwork in achieving success
• The impact of fake news and misinformation
• The importance of healthy relationships
• The benefits of effective communication skills
• The role of leadership in community development
• The impact of social media on self-esteem
• The importance of goal setting and personal development
• The role of creativity and innovation in problem solving
• The importance of stress management
• The benefits of financial literacy and budgeting
• The role of self-reflection in personal growth
• The impact of technology on work-life balance
• The importance of a healthy work-life balance
• The benefits of civic engagement and community involvement
• The role of perseverance in achieving success
• The impact of the media on body image
• The importance of a positive self-image
• The benefits of community service and volunteerism
• The impact of social media on privacy
• The importance of self-expression and creativity
• The role of positive thinking in personal development
• The impact of technology on the environment
• The importance of mental and emotional intelligence
• The benefits of physical and mental well-being
• The importance of setting and achieving personal goals
• The benefits of continuous learning and self-improvement
• The role of diversity and cultural understanding in a global society
• The importance of strong personal relationships
• The benefits of taking risks and stepping outside of one’s comfort zone
• The role of accountability in personal development
• The impact of the internet on privacy and security
• The importance of maintaining a healthy work-life balance.
• What is your favorite historical era and why?
• Can we learn from history and prevent past mistakes?
• How has history been taught and remembered differently in different cultures and countries?
• Should history be rewritten to correct past inaccuracies and injustices?
• How has technology changed the way we study and understand history?
• How has historical fiction influenced our understanding of history?
• Can historical events and figures be seen in shades of gray rather than black and white?
• How has globalization impacted the study and understanding of history?
• Should controversial historical figures and events be celebrated or condemned?
• What role does propaganda play in shaping our understanding of historical events?
• How has imperialism impacted the world’s history and current state of affairs?
• Can history be used to predict the future?
• What is the importance of preserving historical artifacts and landmarks?
• How has the interpretation of history changed over time?
• What can we learn from the study of history that can be applied to the present day?
• How have historical events impacted social and cultural movements?
• Should history be used to justify present-day actions and policies?
• Can history be a source of inspiration?
• How has the history of colonization impacted indigenous cultures and communities?
• Should the study of history be mandatory in schools?
• How has historical revisionism impacted our understanding of events and figures?
• Can history be used to challenge present-day prejudices and biases?
• How have gender and race influenced our understanding of history?
• Should history be taught in a more objective or subjective manner?
• How have historical events influenced art, literature, and culture?
• How has the study of history impacted scientific and technological advancements?
• How have historical events shaped the current political landscape?
• Should history be taught in a global or regional context?
• How have wars and conflicts impacted the world’s history and current state of affairs?
• Can we learn from the mistakes of past leaders and societies?
• How have historical events impacted international relations and diplomacy?
• Should historical figures who committed atrocities be remembered and celebrated?
• How has the study of history impacted our understanding of human nature?
• Can we ever truly understand the motives and actions of historical figures?
• How has the study of history influenced our understanding of religion and spirituality?
• Should history be used to inspire activism and social change?
• How have historical events impacted the natural environment and conservation efforts?
• Can we learn from the successes and achievements of historical figures?
• How has the study of history influenced our understanding of economics and trade?
• Should history be used to inform policy decisions?
• How has the history of medicine and healthcare impacted our current understanding and practices?
• How have historical events shaped our understanding and treatment of mental health?
• Can we learn from the mistakes of past civilizations and prevent their downfall?
• How has the history of education impacted current systems and practices?
• Should we prioritize the study of global or national histories?
• How have historical events impacted human migration and displacement?
• Can we learn from the successes and failures of past social movements?
• How has the history of science and technology impacted our current understanding and practices?
• Should historical events and figures be judged by present-day standards and values?
• How has the study of history impacted our understanding and treatment of human rights and social justice?
• Artificial intelligence and its impact on society
• Climate change and global warming
• The future of space exploration
• The effects of social media on human interaction
• The history and evolution of the internet
• Ethical issues in biotechnology
• Alternative energy sources
• The impact of technology on job market
• Privacy concerns in the digital age
• The role of government in education
• The importance of mental health
• The role of media in shaping public opinion
• The impact of the gig economy
• The history of civil rights movements
• The impact of globalization on local cultures
• The effects of income inequality
• The role of technology in healthcare
• The future of transportation
• The influence of advertising on consumer behavior
• The impact of COVID-19 on the global economy
• The role of social media in politics
• The history and future of virtual reality
• The effects of climate change on wildlife
• The ethics of animal testing
• The impact of automation on employment
• The history of the feminist movement
• The effects of economic sanctions
• The role of technology in agriculture
• The influence of peer pressure on young people
• The impact of the music industry on society
• The history and future of renewable energy
• The ethics of genetic engineering
• The impact of the digital divide on society
• The role of technology in urbanization
• The effects of fast fashion on the environment
• The history and future of cybersecurity
• The impact of political correctness on free speech
• The role of social media in activism
• The influence of artificial intelligence on human creativity
• The impact of economic globalization on local businesses
• The ethics of drones and autonomous weapons
• The history and future of space tourism
• The effects of online education on traditional education
• The role of technology in disaster response and recovery
• The influence of technology on interpersonal communication
• The impact of gentrification on urban communities
• The ethics of surveillance in a digital age
• The history and future of renewable energy storage
• The effects of income tax policies on the economy
• The role of technology in solving global problems.
• The impact of technology on society and daily life
• The changing landscape of education and its effects on students and society
• The pros and cons of social media and its impact on communication and relationships
• The ethics and moral implications of new advancements in science and technology
• The role of government and politics in shaping society and individual freedoms
• Environmental concerns and sustainability efforts in the face of global climate change
• The meaning and purpose of life and personal fulfillment
• The effects of globalization and cultural exchange on society and identity
• Mental health and wellness in the modern world
• The impact of media and pop culture on attitudes and beliefs.

Kindergarden group discussion topics (age related)

• The importance of sharing and taking turns
• My favorite animals and why
• The colors of the rainbow and how to mix them
• My favorite foods and why
• My family and where I live
• The different seasons and what I like about each
• My favorite toys and games
• My favorite shapes and how to draw them
• The different types of weather and how it affects us
• My favorite books and stories
• The importance of being polite and using kind words
• My favorite numbers and how to count
• The different types of transportation and how they work
• My favorite fruits and vegetables and why they are good for us
• My favorite things to do outside
• My favorite songs and why
• The importance of following rules and staying safe
• My favorite animals and their habitats
• My favorite art materials and how to use them
• The different types of buildings and their functions
• My favorite TV shows and movies
• The importance of being active and moving our bodies
• My favorite holidays and celebrations
• The different types of plants and how they grow
• The importance of good hygiene and keeping our bodies clean.
• The role of math in everyday life and real-world applications
• The challenges and benefits of learning and understanding higher-level math concepts
• The impact of technology on the teaching and learning of math
• The history and evolution of mathematical concepts and theories
• The use of real-world problems and examples to enhance understanding of math
• The importance of critical thinking and problem solving skills in mathematics
• The role of math in fields such as science, engineering, finance, and economics
• The benefits and limitations of using calculators and other technology in math education
• The impact of cultural and societal attitudes on the perception and study of math
• The relationship between math and creativity, including the use of visual and imaginative thinking in solving mathematical problems
• The use of manipulatives and hands-on learning in math education
• The role of group work and collaboration in enhancing understanding of math concepts
• The impact of individual learning styles and preferences on the study and understanding of math
• The benefits and challenges of teaching and learning math in a multilingual and multicultural classroom
• The role of failure and persistence in enhancing math skills and understanding
• The impact of math on society and advancements in areas such as medicine, transportation, and space exploration
• The relationship between math and art, including the use of mathematical principles in artistic expression
• The benefits of learning and using multiple methods and strategies in solving mathematical problems
• The role of assessment and feedback in improving math skills and understanding
• The impact of incorporating real-world data and statistics in math education
• The importance of understanding the connections between math concepts and their applications
• The role of prior knowledge and experiences in shaping math skills and understanding
• The impact of parental and community involvement in math education and success
• The benefits and challenges of integrating technology and digital resources in math education
• The importance of ongoing professional development for math teachers to enhance their teaching practices and student outcomes.
• Is music a universal language?
• How has music evolved over the years?
• Should music be considered an art form?
• Can music influence your mood?
• Is there a particular genre of music that you prefer?
• How important is music in your life?
• Is it possible for music to bring people together?
• What role does music play in society?
• Is it necessary to have a good voice to be a successful musician?
• Is music becoming too commercialized?
• Can music be used as a form of therapy?
• Is the music industry too focused on looks and image?
• Is it necessary for musicians to write their own songs?
• Should music be taught in schools?
• Is autotune ruining music?
• Can music be used as a political tool?
• Is the music industry inclusive enough?
• Is it ethical to use samples in music?
• Is streaming killing the music industry?
• Should musicians be role models?
• Is it important for a musician to be able to play an instrument?
• Is classical music relevant in today’s world?
• Should music be free?
• Does music have a positive impact on mental health?
• Should music be censored?
• Is music becoming too explicit?
• Is it necessary for a musician to have a gimmick?
• Is music becoming too formulaic?
• Can music be used to bring about social change?
• Is it important for a musician to have formal training?
• Is the Grammys the ultimate recognition of a musician’s talent?
• Is it necessary for musicians to tour?
• Is music becoming too digitized?
• Is it necessary for a musician to have a good stage presence?
• Can music be considered a form of self-expression?
• Is it necessary for a musician to have a unique sound?
• Should music videos be considered an art form?
• Can music be used to promote peace?
• Should musicians collaborate with artists from other genres?
• Is it necessary for musicians to have a manager?
• Is the music industry sexist?
• Is it necessary for a musician to be a good performer?
• Should musicians be involved in politics?
• Is it necessary for musicians to be good songwriters?
• Is it ethical for musicians to sell merchandise at their concerts?
• Is it necessary for a musician to have a distinct look?
• Should music critics be taken seriously?
• Can music be used to bridge cultural divides?
• Is it necessary for a musician to be able to read sheet music?
• Should musicians be paid more for their work?
• Is music becoming too repetitive?
• Should musicians be judged on their personal lives?
• Is it necessary for a musician to have a message in their music?
• Is it necessary for a musician to have a good personality?
• Should musicians be involved in charity work?
• Is it necessary for a musician to have a strong social media presence?
• Should music be used in advertising?
• Is music becoming too focused on technology?
• Should music festivals have more diverse lineups?
• Is it necessary for a musician to have a brand?
• Should musicians have a say in how their music is used?
• Can music be used to raise awareness about social issues?
• Is it necessary for a musician to have a certain image?
• Should musicians be involved in fashion?
• Is music becoming too political?
• Should musicians have more control over their music?
• The importance of hand washing in promoting personal hygiene
• The benefits and challenges of maintaining a regular grooming routine
• The role of dental hygiene in overall health and well-being
• The impact of diet and nutrition on personal hygiene
• The benefits and challenges of maintaining personal hygiene while traveling
• The importance of showering and bathing in promoting personal hygiene
• The role of hygiene in preventing the spread of illnesses and diseases
• The impact of personal hygiene on social and professional interactions
• The benefits and challenges of maintaining personal hygiene in communal living spaces
• The importance of regular grooming of hair and nails in promoting personal hygiene
• The role of personal hygiene in preventing body odor and bad breath
• The impact of personal hygiene on self-esteem and confidence
• The benefits and challenges of promoting personal hygiene for children and teenagers
• The importance of personal hygiene in promoting mental and emotional well-being
• The role of hygiene in preventing skin irritation and infections
• The impact of environmental factors on personal hygiene
• The benefits and challenges of promoting personal hygiene for individuals with disabilities
• The importance of personal hygiene in promoting a healthy and clean living environment
• The impact of hygiene habits on the longevity and health of personal items, such as clothing and bedding
• The benefits and challenges of promoting personal hygiene in public spaces
• The importance of personal hygiene in promoting a positive body image
• The role of hygiene in maintaining a healthy vaginal and genital area for women
• The impact of hygiene on overall hygiene and hygiene on the environment
• The benefits and challenges of promoting personal hygiene for individuals with limited resources and access to personal care products.
• The impact of scientific advancements on society and daily life
• The ethics and morality of scientific research and experimentation
• The role of science in understanding and solving global problems such as climate change and disease
• The history and evolution of scientific theories and discoveries
• The importance of interdisciplinary collaboration in scientific research
• The role of technology and innovation in advancing scientific understanding
• The benefits and challenges of science education and outreach to the public
• The relationship between science and religion, and the perception of science in different cultures
• The role of experimentation and observation in scientific inquiry
• The impact of funding and resources on scientific research and discovery
• The importance of critical thinking and skepticism in evaluating scientific claims
• The benefits and limitations of computer modeling and simulation in scientific research
• The role of science in shaping public policy and decision-making
• The impact of science on industry and commerce, including the development of new products and technologies
• The role of diversity and representation in science and scientific research
• The relationship between science and art, including the use of scientific principles in artistic expression
• The importance of communication and presentation skills in sharing and promoting scientific discoveries
• The impact of science on global health and medicine, including the development of new treatments and vaccines
• The role of science in exploring and understanding the natural world, including astronomy and geology
• The benefits of cross-cultural exchange and collaboration in scientific research
• The impact of science on energy and the environment, including alternative and sustainable energy sources
• The role of science in understanding and exploring the human mind and behavior
• The importance of science literacy and understanding among the general public
• The impact of science on communication and information technology, including the development of the internet
• The role of science in advancing our understanding of the universe and the origins of life.
• The importance of effective communication in solving disputes
• The benefits and challenges of using active listening and empathy in dispute resolution
• The role of compromise and negotiation in solving disputes
• The impact of emotions and biases on the resolution of disputes
• The benefits and challenges of using mediation and alternative dispute resolution methods
• The importance of understanding the root causes of disputes in finding a resolution
• The role of power dynamics and fairness in solving disputes
• The impact of cultural and social norms on resolving disputes
• The benefits and challenges of using humor and levity in resolving disputes
• The importance of identifying and managing expectations in solving disputes
• The role of trust and transparency in solving disputes
• The impact of past experiences and traumas on resolving disputes
• The benefits and challenges of using data and facts in solving disputes
• The importance of considering multiple perspectives in resolving disputes
• The role of laws, regulations, and policies in resolving disputes
• The impact of online and digital communication in resolving disputes
• The benefits and challenges of seeking outside help and support in resolving disputes
• The importance of taking responsibility and accountability in resolving disputes
• The role of forgiveness and letting go in resolving disputes
• The impact of personal beliefs and values on resolving disputes
• The benefits and challenges of using positive reinforcement in resolving disputes
• The importance of maintaining relationships and avoiding retaliation after resolving disputes
• The role of patience and persistence in resolving disputes
• The impact of personal growth and development on resolving disputes
• The benefits and challenges of promoting long-term solutions and preventative measures in resolving disputes.
• The impact of technology on traditional education methods and the classroom experience
• The effects of standardized testing and high-stakes exams on student learning and motivation
• The impact of budget cuts and decreased funding on the quality of education
• The role of educators and schools in promoting diversity, inclusivity, and social justice
• The effects of the COVID-19 pandemic on the education system and students’ learning experiences
• The impact of the achievement gap and educational inequities on student outcomes and opportunities
• The role of parents and families in supporting and participating in their children’s education
• The effects of the increasing cost of higher education on student debt and access to opportunities
• The impact of the growing emphasis on STEM education and the devaluation of the arts and humanities
• The role of schools and educators in addressing and preventing bullying and harassment
• The effects of the political climate and political debates on the education system and curriculum
• The impact of the use of big data and personalization in education on student privacy and autonomy
• The role of schools and educators in fostering critical thinking, creativity, and independent learning
• The effects of the growing use of technology in education on student attention spans and focus
• The impact of the growing push for vocational and trade schools on traditional four-year colleges and universities
• The role of schools and educators in promoting mental health and wellness in students
• The effects of the achievement gap and education disparities on the workforce and economic opportunities
• The impact of the changing job market and workforce demands on the education system and curriculum
• The role of schools and educators in promoting and supporting student engagement and activism
• The effects of the growing emphasis on high-stakes testing and data-driven decision making on teaching quality and creativity
• The impact of the use of standardized assessments and national standards on local control and autonomy of schools
• The role of schools and educators in addressing the digital divide and unequal access to technology
• The effects of the growing use of online resources and digital materials on the preservation of traditional knowledge and skills
• The impact of the changing political climate and immigration policies on access to education for all students.
• The effects of social media on self-esteem and body image
• The role of social media in promoting and suppressing diversity and inclusivity
• The effects of social media on our political beliefs and activism
• The impact of social media on privacy and personal data security
• The role of social media in promoting and suppressing mental health and wellness
• The effects of social media on the traditional news media and journalism
• The impact of social media on our ability to focus and concentrate
• The role of social media in fostering online communities and support groups
• The effects of social media on our understanding of the world and current events
• The role of social media in promoting and suppressing entrepreneurship and innovation
• The effects of social media on our attention spans and memory retention
• The impact of social media on the entertainment industry and the distribution of creative content
• The role of social media in promoting and suppressing freedom of speech and censorship
• The effects of social media on the education system and traditional learning methods
• The impact of social media on advertising and consumer behavior
• The role of social media in promoting and suppressing political discourse and activism
• The effects of social media on our ability to form and maintain romantic relationships
• The impact of social media on the healthcare industry and access to medical information
• The role of social media in promoting and suppressing environmental sustainability and eco-consciousness
• The effects of social media on our sense of humor and comedic taste
• The impact of social media on the criminal justice system and law enforcement
• The role of social media in promoting and suppressing democracy and human rights.
• The impact of technology on our ability to communicate and form real-life relationships
• The role of technology in promoting and suppressing privacy and personal data security
• The effects of technology on mental health and well-being
• The role of technology in promoting and suppressing freedom of speech and censorship
• The impact of technology on the entertainment industry and the distribution of creative content
• The effects of technology on our physical health and fitness
• The impact of technology on the economy and job market
• The role of technology in promoting and suppressing environmental sustainability and eco-consciousness
• The effects of technology on our political beliefs and activism
• The impact of technology on the healthcare industry and access to medical information
• The role of technology in promoting and suppressing diversity and inclusivity
• The effects of technology on self-esteem and body image
• The impact of technology on advertising and consumer behavior
• The role of technology in promoting and suppressing democracy and human rights
• The effects of technology on the traditional news media and journalism
• The impact of technology on our understanding of the world and current events
• The role of technology in promoting and suppressing mental health and wellness
• The effects of technology on our ability to form and maintain romantic relationships
• The impact of technology on the criminal justice system and law enforcement
• The role of technology in fostering online communities and support groups
• The effects of technology on our sense of humor and comedic taste.

Thoughts on the internet

• The impact of social media on society and relationships
• The role of the internet in shaping political discourse and activism
• The effects of internet addiction and technology overuse on mental health
• The role of the internet in spreading false information and misinformation
• The impact of e-commerce and online shopping on brick and mortar businesses
• The use of the internet for privacy invasion and government surveillance
• The impact of the internet on traditional forms of media, such as newspapers and television
• The effects of the internet on employment and job opportunities
• The impact of the internet on relationships and dating
• The use of the internet for cybercrime and hacking
• The impact of the internet on cultural exchange and global interconnectedness
• The effects of the internet on language and communication
• The role of the internet in promoting and suppressing diversity and inclusivity
• The impact of the internet on the economy and job market
• The use of the internet for virtual reality and augmented reality experiences
• The role of the internet in promoting and suppressing entrepreneurship and innovation
• The impact of the internet on healthcare and access to medical information
• The effects of the internet on environmental sustainability and eco-consciousness
• The role of the internet in promoting and suppressing democracy and human rights
• The impact of the internet on the entertainment industry and the distribution of creative content
• The use of the internet for telemedicine and remote healthcare services
• The role of the internet in the future of work and the impact on job security.
• The impact of technology on personal well-being
• The importance of self-care and self-compassion in promoting well-being
• The benefits and challenges of mindfulness and meditation practices
• The role of social connections and community in promoting well-being
• The impact of stress and anxiety on personal well-being
• The benefits and challenges of exercise and physical activity for well-being
• The importance of sleep for overall well-being
• The role of nature and the environment in promoting well-being
• The impact of work-life balance on personal well-being
• The benefits and challenges of spiritual practices and beliefs for well-being
• The importance of relationships and communication skills in promoting well-being
• The role of creative expression in promoting well-being
• The impact of financial stability and financial planning on personal well-being
• The benefits and challenges of volunteering and giving back for well-being
• The importance of play and leisure activities for overall well-being
• The role of personal values and purpose in promoting well-being
• The impact of cultural and societal norms on personal well-being
• The benefits and challenges of therapy and mental health support for well-being
• The importance of self-reflection and personal growth for overall well-being
• The role of humor and laughter in promoting well-being
• The impact of travel and new experiences on personal well-being
• The benefits and challenges of community involvement and activism for well-being
• The importance of healthy boundaries and personal space for overall well-being
• The role of gratitude and positive thinking in promoting well-being
• The impact of media consumption and social media on personal well-being.
• Would you rather have a superpower that allows you to read minds or one that allows you to become invisible?
• Would you rather have a guaranteed job offer after graduation or have the opportunity to travel for a year before starting your career?
• Would you rather have a job where you work with your hands or one where you work with your mind?
• Would you rather have a job where you work independently or one where you work closely with others?
• Would you rather have a job that is physically demanding or one that is mentally demanding?
• Would you rather have a job with a lot of responsibility or one where you have less responsibility?
• Would you rather have a job that allows you to be creative or one that is more structured?
• Would you rather have a job with a set schedule or one that is flexible?
• Would you rather have a job that is fast-paced or one that is more relaxed?
• Would you rather work in an environment that is quiet or one that is more lively and social?
• Would you rather have a job where you have to learn new things constantly or one that is more routine?
• Would you rather work for a small company or a large corporation?
• Would you rather have a job with a set salary or one where you get paid based on performance?
• Would you rather have a job where you can work from home or one where you have to go into the office?
• Would you rather have a job that involves a lot of travel or one where you can stay close to home?
• Would you rather work in a job that allows you to help others or one that primarily benefits yourself?
• Would you rather have a job where you work outdoors or one where you are indoors all day?
• Would you rather have a job where you have to use your creativity or one where you have to use your analytical skills?
• Would you rather work in a job that involves a lot of public speaking or one where you can avoid it?
• Would you rather have a job that involves a lot of physical activity or one where you can sit at a desk?
• Would you rather work in a job that allows you to dress casually or one where you have to dress professionally?
• Would you rather have a job where you work with children or one where you work with adults?
• Would you rather work in a job that involves a lot of math or one where you don’t have to use math?
• Would you rather have a job that is challenging but rewarding or one that is easy but less fulfilling?
• Would you rather work in a job where you have a lot of autonomy or one where you have to follow strict guidelines?
• Would you rather have a job that involves a lot of creativity or one that is more analytical?
• Would you rather have a job where you have a lot of interactions with people or one where you work more independently?
• Would you rather have a job where you work during traditional business hours or one where you work during non-traditional hours?
• Would you rather work in a job where you have to make a lot of decisions or one where you don’t have to make many decisions?
• Would you rather work in a job where you have a set schedule or one where the schedule is more flexible?
• Would you rather have a job where you get to work with animals or one where you don’t?
• Would you rather work in a job where you have a lot of physical contact with others or one where you have less physical contact?
• Would you rather travel to the past or the future?
• Would you rather live without internet or live without air conditioning/heating?
• Would you rather be a superhero or a villain?
• Would you rather have a pet dragon or a pet unicorn?
• Would you rather have the power to read minds or the power to teleport?
• Would you rather always be 10 minutes late or always be 20 minutes early?
• Would you rather have a photographic memory or have the ability to forget anything you want?
• Would you rather be a famous musician or a famous actor/actress?
• Would you rather live in a world without music or a world without movies?
• Would you rather have a personal chef or a personal assistant?
• Would you rather have the ability to speak any language fluently or be a master of every musical instrument?
• Would you rather have the power of super strength or the power of telekinesis?
• Would you rather have a personal chauffeur or a personal trainer?
• Would you rather have the ability to talk to animals or the ability to speak any human language fluently?
• Would you rather be a professional athlete or a successful business owner?
• Would you rather live in a world where everyone can read minds or a world where everyone can fly?
• Would you rather always have to speak in rhyme or always have to sing everything you say?
• Would you rather have the ability to breathe underwater or the ability to fly underwater?
• Would you rather be a character in a romantic comedy or a horror movie?
• Would you rather live in a world where it never stops raining or a world where it never stops snowing?
• Would you rather have a job that pays well but you hate, or a job that pays poorly but you love?
• Would you rather be able to time travel but never come back to the present or be stuck in the present forever?
• Would you rather have the power to heal any illness or have the power to bring the dead back to life?
• Would you rather have the power to control the weather or have the power to control time?
• Would you rather be able to speak every language in the world or be able to communicate with animals?
• Would you rather be able to teleport anywhere in the world or be able to create any object with your mind?
• Would you rather have the power to fly or have the power to become invisible?
• Would you rather be able to travel to any fictional world or be able to bring fictional characters to life?
• Would you rather live in a world with no technology or a world with no nature?
• Would you rather be able to breathe fire or be able to breathe ice?
• Would you rather be a famous author or a famous painter?
• Would you rather have the ability to turn invisible or have the ability to walk through walls?
• Would you rather be able to communicate with the dead or have the ability to see the future?
• Would you rather be able to transform into any animal or have the power to control any animal’s mind?
• Would you rather have a photographic memory or be able to instantly learn anything?
• Would you rather be able to talk to plants or be able to talk to machines?
• Would you rather be a famous scientist or a famous musician?
• Would you rather be able to travel to any point in history or be able to travel to any point in the future?
• Would you rather have the ability to breathe underwater or have the ability to swim as fast as a dolphin?
• Would you rather be able to understand and speak all languages or be able to read minds?
• Would you rather be able to move objects with your mind or have the power of super speed?
• Would you rather be able to create illusions or have the ability to shape shift?
• Would you rather be able to control fire or control water?
• Would you rather have a flying car or a submarine car?
• Would you rather be able to see in the dark or have night vision?
• Would you rather be a famous athlete or a famous chef?
• Would you rather be able to control the internet or control the media?
• Would you rather live in a world with no books or a world with no movies?
• The impact of social media on modern communication
• The importance of mental health awareness
• The benefits and drawbacks of remote work
• The ethics of genetic engineering and gene editing
• The future of renewable energy
• The impact of technology on personal relationships
• The influence of pop culture on society
• The rise of entrepreneurship and the gig economy
• The effect of music on mental health
• The challenges and benefits of multiculturalism
• The impact of climate change on the world
• The ethics of artificial intelligence
• The benefits and drawbacks of virtual reality
• The future of healthcare technology
• The impact of immigration on society
• The role of religion in modern society
• The effect of the internet on democracy
• The ethics of space exploration
• The future of cryptocurrency and blockchain technology
• The impact of video games on mental health
• The benefits and drawbacks of social welfare programs
• The role of the media in shaping public opinion
• The impact of aging populations on society
• The ethics of genetically modified foods
• The future of artificial organs and transplants
• The influence of fashion on culture
• The role of the family in modern society
• The impact of automation on the job market
• The benefits and drawbacks of a cashless society
• The future of augmented reality
• The ethics of human cloning
• The influence of celebrities on society
• The role of sports in society
• The impact of poverty on education
• The benefits and drawbacks of nuclear power
• The future of self-driving cars
• The ethics of assisted suicide and euthanasia
• The impact of urbanization on the environment
• The influence of social class on opportunities
• The role of government in shaping society
• The impact of income inequality on society
• The benefits and drawbacks of renewable energy subsidies
• The future of 3D printing
• The ethics of animal rights and animal welfare
• The influence of social norms on behavior
• The role of community service in society
• The impact of cyberbullying on mental health
• The benefits and drawbacks of universal basic income
• The future of smart homes and the internet of things
• The ethics of censorship and free speech
• The influence of the beauty industry on self-esteem
• The role of volunteerism in society
• The impact of natural disasters on communities
• The benefits and drawbacks of gun control
• The future of space tourism
• The ethics of organ donation
• The influence of technology on physical fitness
• The role of charity in society
• The impact of sexual harassment on mental health
• The benefits and drawbacks of mandatory voting
• The future of sustainable agriculture
• The ethics of privacy in the age of social media
• The influence of stereotypes on behavior
• The role of philanthropy in society
• The impact of substance abuse on society
• The benefits and drawbacks of open borders
• The future of space colonization
• The ethics of embryonic stem cell research
• The influence of peer pressure on decision-making
• The role of activism in society
• The impact of human trafficking on communities
• The benefits and drawbacks of mandatory military service
• The ethics of animal captivity in zoos and aquariums
• The influence of gender roles on society
• The role of social support networks in mental health
• The impact of addiction on families
• The benefits and drawbacks of free college education
• The future of renewable materials and sustainable fashion
• The ethics of surrogacy and reproductive technology
• The influence of cultural appropriation on society
• The role of forgiveness in healing relationships
• The impact of cyberstalking and online harassment
• The benefits and drawbacks of renewable energy storage solutions
• The future of space debris management
• The ethics of animal research and testing
• The influence of beauty standards on body image
• The role of mindfulness and meditation in mental health
• The impact of homelessness on communities
• The benefits and drawbacks of mandatory vaccination policies
• The future of smart cities and urban planning
• The ethics of biohacking and DIY biology
• The influence of language on culture and identity.

This article was originally written August 2022, and was updated July 2023 to be even more helpful.

Colin is a Content Marketer at Thinkific, writing about everything from online entrepreneurship & course creation to digital marketing strategy.

• 11 Best Community Management Courses
• 12+ Online Community Statistics to Shape Your Community Strategy
• 7 Ways to Monetize Your Online Community
• 7 Steps To Building An Online Community (With Examples)
• 875+ Online Community Name Ideas for Any Niche

Related Articles

How to be confident on camera (tips from jon youshaei).

Boost your on-camera confidence with expert tips on authenticity and engagement from expert and viral YouTuber Jon Youshaei.

How to Promote a Webinar (Ultimate Guide)

Learn how to use webinars to increase your online course sales from expert Todd Parmley.

How Does Marketing Automation Work? What It Is and How To Do It

Marketing automation is a foundational element in your productivity and success as a business offering online courses, streamlining the tasks that take your focus away from the big picture. Learn how to get started today.

Try Thinkific for yourself!

Accomplish your course creation and student success goals faster with thinkific..

Download this guide and start building your online program!

It is on its way to your inbox

Group Discussion Topics: 100+ Interesting Ideas

A group discussion is a team or group of several individuals who sit together to discuss a topic or exchange viewpoints regarding a particular topic. Professors usually conduct GDs as part of their speaking assignments. The topic is either provided by a moderator or by the professors themselves. On the contrary, in some cases, moderators ask the students to develop their group discussion topics independently. In such a case, you need to decide the most appropriate topic that the entire group can work on. Thus the group should choose a topic that can enhance the entire group’s viewpoints, knowledge, and experiences.

This blog post will share a list of 100+ enticing group discussion topics. However, before jumping to the topic lists, we will share some expert tips to help you choose the topic. These will help you choose an ideal topic to discuss in a group. So, continue reading this blog post to boost your confidence, communication, analytical, and logical skills.

Table of Contents

What is a Group Discussion?

Group discussion is a learning method where individuals and students share their viewpoints, experiences, opinions, knowledge, etc. It is generally a screening test that a college admissions panel conducts to analyze the general abilities of the candidates.

In most cases, admission panels for MBA admissions use this technique to screen various candidates and choose the most qualified of them. Group discussion is an influential group activity that helps students boosts their critical thinking, problem-solving, analytical, confidence, and, most importantly, knowledge. As a result, many businesses and educational institutions view GD as one of the most efficient techniques for assessing and short-listing suitable applicants.

If want higher grades pay someone to write your paper.

How to Select a Good Topic?

Group discussions tend to be more specific and formal, and a top-notch group discussion can significantly impact your academic grades. In this context, students must choose a topic that is appropriate and in which all participants are enthusiastic about participating.

• As a group activity, it is critical that whatever topic you select be suitable for all the members and be able to engage them equally. You should choose a topic that all of your teammates would enjoy. The topic should stimulate their ideas and opinions.
• The subject matter for the group discussion should allow the participants to draw on prior knowledge they have acquired. It will guarantee that all members are on the same page and working toward the same goal.
• After asking a question, give your team members a few minutes to think about the question. It will give them time to articulate their thoughts and suggestions and provide relevant answers.
• Choose a group discussion topic based on the past few events. It will help you spice up the discussion, as the event must have happened in the recent past. It ensures equal engagement of all the members throughout the discussion.
• Group discussions indeed promote in-dependency among all participants. Nevertheless, one should remember that this is also a group activity. Thus, along with promoting individualism, you should also help your teammates develop solutions to the issue.

Top 100 +Group Discussion Topics

Suitable discussion topics are essential for delivering an engaging group discussion. Below we are sharing some exciting and relevant group discussion topics in various subjects, including science, politics, and sports. Depending on your needs, you’re free to choose any subject per your wish and deliver a quality paper. So, have a look at the following lists and pick the most appropriate for your GD:

Trending Group Discussions Topics for Student

Generally, a group discussion revolves around current events, facts, controversies, case studies, and short studies that can quickly grab audiences’ attention. Below are some interesting and relevant current topics for group discussions:

• The impact of COVID-19’s breakdown on the global economy
• The politics of global fuel pricing
• Marriage is a social trap
• Capital punishment as a system
• The economic development of India
• The economy of India: India overtakes the UK as the world’s fifth-largest economy.
• The anatomy of the Indian digital transactions
• Islamophobia and racism in America
• OTT versus theatre: what is the future of entertainment?
• The Russia-Ukraine war and the global conflict
• The augmented reality of the Metaverse
• Abortion in the United States
• The mitigation of climate change
• The contradictions of capital punishment from a global perspective
• The Taliban and the strategic co-optation of Afghanistan
• The fate of Afghan women
• The alarming scarcity of water
• Legalization of human cloning

Group Discussion Topics in Business and Economics

Business and economics are two of the most popular adult group discussion topics that can elicit lively participation from all participants. Have a look at these topics to discuss in a group:

• Economic discounts: are they beneficiary in the long run?
• Global Hunger Index 2022
• Circular economy as the key to sustainable development
• The fourth industrial revolution
• The global economic impact of COVID-19
• Cryptocurrency is a worthwhile investment option
• High fuel prices in the US
• Merits and demerits of a cashless economy
• Fair Digital Finance
• Artificial intelligence for everyone
• IPO Part 2: Initial Public Offerings Are Back
• The US trade policy
• The US-China trade war and talks
• Modern business and its surroundings
• Work from home after the COVID-19 breakdown
• Controversy as a marketing strategy
• Can nonperforming banks resolve India’s NPA problems?
• The impact of the cashless economy: the challenges and the opportunities
• Is democracy a hindrance to economic development?
• Privatization of public sectors

Read Also  – A List of 100+ Research Topics in Education

Group Discussion Topics for MBA Students

Group discussions are one of the crucial elements of the admission of MBA students. Thus, to clear your entrance, it is highly beneficial for students to select a topic that can help them attain exceptional scores in their entrances. Examine the following topics and select the one that best meets your needs.

• The future of artificial intelligence
• Emerging challenges in the Indian banking system
• Green economy: incremental or transformational change?
• The prospects of work-life balance
• Recession in the US by 2022
• Corruption is a necessary evil to earn success
• Work-life balance and working from home
• Globalization: has it transformed the globe into a borderless world?
• What will happen if bitcoin crashes to zero?
• Promoting gender equality in the workplace: a global perspective

Interesting Topics for Group Discussions on Sports

As sports involvement is increasing worldwide, it can be a fascinating topic for your group discussion. Here are some excellent group discussion topics for students who want to choose sports-related topics for their group discussions:

• Legalization and regulation of sports betting
• Steroids in sports
• The psychology of sports
• The politics of sports facilities
• Understanding cricket as an overrated game
• Test matches: should the government abolish these?
• Should the government legalize performance-enhancing drugs?
• The economics of the Olympics
• Test matches should be abolished.
• Gender equality in sports
• MMA vs. Boxing
• Match fixing: the biggest threat to sports
• The economic impact of hosting the Olympic games
• The tragic international sports marketing

Read Also – Top 100 Position Paper Topics

Interesting Topics for Group Discussion on Case Studies

Just like group discussions, case studies are conducted to analyze an individual’s viewpoint, experience, performance, and behavior at a certain event. Here you will find a list of a few case studies you can use as your group discussion topic. So, if you’re interested in case studies, here are a few case study group discussion topics for you:

• Integrity as a part of human life
• The case of Albert Ayala vs. the State of Texas
• Recycling for Profits: How to Profit from Recycling
• The decline in productivity in the Japanese workforce
• The coal crisis in The World
• The minimum wage legislation in the United States
• The Chevron case
• Ban on a Cryptocurrency
• The China and Taiwan conflicts
• Plastic bans in the United States
• The world after the post-cold war
• Market capitalization: pre- and post-COVID-19 fractal contagion effects
• Nakamura Lacquer Company
• The global consequences of lockdown on the world
• India’s soft power: India’s greatest asset in this century
• The US-China trade war
• The tragic fate of women in Afghanistan
• The economic consequences of the Russia-Ukraine conflict
• Indian illiteracy and unemployment

Read Also – 200+ Exciting Psychology Research Topic Ideas

Social Issues-Related Group Discussion Topics

Group discussion topics on social issues emphasize social issues that affect society. These issues include a variety of topics, including ethics, gender inequality, the environment, employment, education, politics, and beyond. Below are the latest social issue topics for group discussion:

• The long history of feminism
• Nepotism in the workplace and its adverse impacts on professionalism
• Pseudo-feminism vs. feminism
• Marital rape
• Analyzing behavioral differences between Gen Z and Millennial
• Youth and politics
• Gender inequalities in the workplace
• The safe school policy for LGTBQ students
• The rampant use of substances and drugs among adults
• The gay marriage generation: valuing everyone under the law
• The law on abortion in the United States
• Is women’s empowerment an effective solution to ending violence against women?
• Communalism and its effect on social cohesion
• Child beauty pageants: the killing of innocence
• Work from home vs. work from the office
• Lessons we learned as a society from the COVID-19 outbreak
• A critical analysis of legal organ transplant scams across the world
• Crime and unemployment: what is the relationship between the two?
• Road rage is a serious issue in modern society.
• Borderless world: a myth or reality?
• The economic crisis in Sri Lanka: what led to bankruptcy?

Final Words

There’s a saying that rings true for all of us that there is a significant difference between an argument and a discussion. . Remember that this is a group discussion, not an argument. It will be the group discussion that will help you score high in front of your admission panels. Thus, instead of disparaging one another, try to discuss the issues. A structured schedule will ensure that all members are focused and punctual in their responsibilities to achieve their goals.

These were some of the trending group discussion topics of 2022. The above-given topics should benefit moderators and participants for their upcoming group discussion session. Practicing articulating your thoughts in a disciplined and creative manner will help you to stand out of the curve. Hopefully, this blog has helped you get a better insight into group discussion topics.

By Alex Brown

I'm an ambitious, seasoned, and versatile author. I am experienced in proposing, outlining, and writing engaging assignments. Developing contagious academic work is always my top priority. I have a keen eye for detail and diligence in producing exceptional academic writing work. I work hard daily to help students with their assignments and projects. Experimenting with creative writing styles while maintaining a solid and informative voice is what I enjoy the most.

708+ Group Discussion Topics (with Answers) of 2024-25

• . Update: Jul 9, 2024 11:37 am

Note: Don’t forget to check the   Top 30 GD topics of 2024 .

Latest Group Discussion Topics (GD Topics) with Answers :

• Skill census
• Quota for locals in private jobs
• Are drones a positive or negative influence on society?
• India’s wedding industry
• Impact of E-commerce on traditional retail business
• National Green Hydrogen Mission
• Sustainable transport
• Benefits of AI in Education
• Plastic Free July
• South China Sea
• Mental health in the Digital age
• Sports Tourism
• Cyber spying
• Sustainable business
• Rainwater Harvesting
• Restriction on Paytm Payment Bank
• Future of Virtual Reality (VR) in Everyday Life
• Food Security
• Attention Economy
• Iran-Pakistan conflict 2024
• Storytelling in Marketing
• Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza
• Open Network for Digital Commerce (ONDC)
• Red Sea crisis
• Importance of Sports
• Why does India lag behind in football?
• Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban Treaty (CTBT)
• Books vs screens
• Green Credits initiative
• Declining World Population
• Role of Microfinance in India’s Economic Growth
• Digital Twin
• 70 hour work week – Pros & Cons
• National Quantum Mission
• Asteroid Bennu sample – OSIRIS-REx
• The Growing Threat of Digital Payment Frauds
• Social Security Net
• Global Biofuels Alliance
• India-Canada Relations
• Israel-Hamas war
• Ethanol Blended Petrol
• Board Exam Twice a Year
• The Five Eyes
• India-Middle East-Europe Corridor (IMEC)
• Ban on Smartphones in Schools
• Fukushima water release
• Global Space Economy
• ISRO’s Aditya L1 Mission
• Deglobalization
• Expansion of BRICS
• The time to repair the roof is when the sun is shining
• Russia’s Lunar 25 Mission Failure
• Titan submersible implosion
• A Ship in the Harbour is Safe, but That is Not What a Ship is for
• Restrictions on the import of laptops, tablets, and servers
• India’s rice export ban
• The Edtech bubble has burst
• Contribution of the Aviation industry to our lives
• Energy Transition
• Digital Health
• Chandrayaan-3
• Will Threads kill Twitter?
• India-UAE relations
• Green Growth
• Adventure Tourism
• 3D printing
• One person can make a difference
• Medical Tourism
• Sustainable Development Goals
• The Second Space Age
• Food wastage
• De-dollarization
• The Future of Banking in India
• Economic survey 2022-23
• Go First crisis
• Rise of Protectionism
• IMF World Economic Outlook 2023
• Effects of income inequality and poverty on society
• Collapse of Credit Suisse
• India’s new Foreign Trade Policy 2023
• Rising heat waves
• Celebrity Endorsement of Products
• ChatGPT 4 vs Google Bard
• The gender unemployment gap in India
• China-Taiwan crisis
• Reusable Launch Vehicle
• Thorium for clean unlimited enegry
• GST (Goods and Services Tax)
• EV Adaption in India
• India-Japan Relations
• Buy Now Pay Later
• Use of AR/VR in defence sector
• Silicon Valley Bank’s collapse
• The Ethics of Artificial Intelligence & Automation
• How will 2022 shape 2023?
• Budget 2023-24
• The changing landscape of education
• Pakistan’s Economic Crisis
• Use of technology in agriculture
• Necklace of Diamonds strategy
• Growth of service sector in India
• The rise of Generative AI
• The Significance of newly found Lithium Deposits in India
• Deepfakes – Pros & Challenges
• Poverty in India
• Blue Economy
• Voice of the Global South summit
• Caller Name Presentation (CNAP)
• India’s G20 presidency 2023
• India-Bangladesh relations
• Cyber Warfare
• Inclusive Growth
• China plus one
• 4-day work week – Pros & Challenges
• Nuclear fusion energy
• Sustainable Fashion
• The Future of Twitter
• India’s semiconductor industry
• Space tourism
• Future of fintech in India
• Lifestyle for Environment – LiFE
• India’s Tourism Industry Post-Covid
• China’s economic slowdown
• Fair Digital Finance
• India as the world’s 5th largest economy
• Effect of Climate Change on Indian Economy
• Moonlighting
• INS Vikrant
• US – China relations
• Neo-banks vs Traditional banks
• 5G in India
• Creator economy
• India’s income inequality
• India as a developed country by 2047
• China’s economic slowdown – Impact on India
• India – Maldives relations
• Binge-watching
• Challenges for the FinTech industry
• James Webb Telescope
• India’s Defence exports
• India – UK relations
• Inclusive workplace
• Deep Tech startups
• Green economy
• India – Sri Lanka relations
• Who is to blame for drug usage among youngsters?
• Time poverty
• Technology addiction
• Stagflation
• Consistency is the key
• Hydrogen vehicles – Pros & Cons
• Rolling stone gathers no moss
• Global energy crisis
• Digital Footprint
• The Future of Travel
• Sri Lanka’s economic crisis – Impact on India
• Is equality a myth?
• Internationalization of the Rupee
• Technology – The death of Libraries
• Future of the Internet
• Women in Armed Forces
• Fast food culture
• Space debris
• ABG shipyard scam – India’s biggest bank fraud
• Is social media making us less social?
• Atmanirbhar bharat in the Defence sector
• Global warming – Causes, Effects & Solutions
• If aliens land on earth
• Impact of 5G on Global economy
• Importance of recycling
• Can India become a global semiconductor hub?
• No one wins in a war
• Russia-Ukraine crisis – Impact on India
• Noise pollution
• Should NEET be banned?
• Straight roads do not make skillful drivers
• Greenwashing
• Russia-Ukraine war
• How can we make the internet a safer place?
• Defence Budget 2022-23
• Are influencers really influencing?
• Union Budget 2022-23
• Covid third wave in India
• Should COVID-19 vaccination be made mandatory?
• Industry 5.0
• Alternative work arrangements
• Role of media in society
• Night owls vs Early birds
• Linking Aadhaar card with Voter ID – Pros & Cons
• Non-Fungible Tokens (NFT)
• Raising the age of marriage for women from 18 to 21 years – Pros & Cons
• Summit for Democracy
• Cashless society
• Parker Solar Probe
• Smart farming
• Android vs iOS – which is better?
• Role of EV to achieve net zero target by 2070
• What will happen if one rupee becomes equal to one dollar?
• Should people invest in cryptocurrency?
• AI-driven decision-making – Pros & Cons
• Gender in politics
• Belarus-EU migrant crisis
• Global Refugee crisis
• Ignorance is bliss
• Importance of psychological counselling in educational institutions
• Think globally Act locally
• Drone technology – Pros & Cons
• Urbanization: challenges and remedies
• Community kitchens – Pros & Challenges
• Solar energy – pros & challenges
• One sun, one world, one grid
• Gati Shakti National Master Plan
• The Great Resignation
• Expectation kills happiness
• E-voting: Pros & challenges
• AUKUS vs Quad
• Life without phone
• Evergrande crisis
• What if Bitcoin crashes to zero?
• College should be free for everyone
• Manipulative marketing
• Digital privacy
• BRICS vs Quad
• Why is earth losing its greenery?
• Happy employees do a better job
• Sri Lanka’s economic crisis
• How to improve the standard of sports in India
• Teamwork vs Individual work
• Caste census – Pros & Cons
• Use of technology in social movements
• Food or Ethics?
• Private job vs Government job
• Impact of globalization on education
• National Monetization Pipeline
• How to prevent floods
• Books vs Movies
• India-Afghanistan relations
• Movies breed crime
• Digital detox
• Startup survival without investors
• Is Technology headed in the right direction?
• No two generations can see eye to eye
• Peer pressure
• OTT vs Theatre
• Taliban rule in Afghanistan – Impact on India
• Impact of COVID-19 on mental health
• Confidence vs Knowledge
• The importance of netiquette in the digital age
• Biomedical waste crisis
• E-Rupee / Digital Rupee
• Post-Covid world
• Impact of COVID-19 on Indian economy
• India’s COVID-19 vaccination program
• Social media influencers – Impact on youth
• Development Finance Institution
• How can we prevent the next pandemic?
• Formal degrees are things of the past
• Should junk food be banned?
• The Future of Artificial Intelligence
• Impact of COVID pandemic on education
• The Future of work
• Blended learning – The new normal
• Impact of reviews on consumer decisions
• Carbon footprint
• Good politics is bad economics
• Is social media polarising society?
• Fame is a double-edged sword
• Money or Happiness – Can money make us happy?
• Gig economy
• Censorship of OTT platforms – Right or Wrong?
• Is the United Nations still relevant?
• Should anonymity be allowed on the internet?
• Green Jobs are essential for sustainable development
• National Recruitment Agency – Pros & Challenges
• National Education Policy 2020
• Atmanirbhar Bharat Abhiyan
• Open book exams – Pros, Cons & Challenges
• National Health ID – Pros, Cons & Challenges
• How to create more jobs in rural areas?
• How to revive Indian economy?
• The pen is mightier than the sword
• E-learning – Pros & Challenges
• Do deadlines destroy creativity?
• Private trains in India – Benefits & Challenges
• Work from home – Pros & Cons
• Ban on Chinese Apps in India
• Lessons from the COVID-19 pandemic
• Impact of Coronavirus/COVID-19 on Environment
• Impact of COVID-19 on Global economy
• Print Media vs Digital Media
• Fit India Movement
• Can India become a $5 trillion economy by 2024?
• Controversy as a marketing strategy
• Crisis in the Automobile Industry
• Disaster Management in India
• Is Technology making us less human?
• Zero Budget Natural Farming
• Coastal security of India
• How can India become a superpower?
• Syrian crisis
• Data Localisation – Benefits & Challenges
• Referendums strengthen democracy
• Circular economy is the key to sustainable development
• How can we utilize technology to tackle Financial crimes?
• India – Russia relations
• Can illiterates be given driving licenses?
• Electric vehicles in India
• Should Cricket be the National game of India?
• Should political parties be brought under RTI Act?
• Shanghai Cooperation Organisation
• Changing relation between India and Bangladesh
• Factors that contributed to the growth of MNCs
• ‘Neighbourhood First’ policy
• Does “NOTA” option in elections really make sense?
• Are corporate jobs a new form of slavery?
• Blood is thicker than water – Abstract GD topic
• Mechanisms adopted to combat terrorism
• India – Iran Relations
• Consumerism and Middle class
• How can the standard of people below the poverty line be raised?
• Facebook vs LinkedIn
• 75% attendance is too much for engineering students
• Is cricket an overrated sport in India?
• Impact of Crony capitalism on India
• Higher Education in India
• Nationalism vs Regionalism
• India-France Relations
• Plastic ban: Economy vs Environment
• Bad bank – Is it a good idea?
• Placement scenario in India
• Is nuclear disarmament mandatory to achieve World Peace?
• Why Indian PSUs are in losses?
• Nuclear waste management
• Should Non-IT students be allowed for IT jobs?
• Fixed pay vs Variable pay
• Does India need ‘National Commission for Men’?
• Can Artificial intelligence replace Human intelligence?
• Retirement Homes – Pros & Cons
• Criminalization of politics
• Democracy vs Monarchy
• The world does not need religion
• How to lessen losses of Air India?
• Money is honey
• Which one is more important – Creativity or Knowledge?
• Who serves the country most – Teacher or Solider?
• Is Stock Market similar to gambling?
• Status of women in India
• Gender Equality in the workplace
• Role of ethics in business
• Knowledge based economy is important to achieve the economic boom of India
• Mission Shakti – India’s Anti-satellite missile test
• Should Physical Education be made compulsory in schools?
• The menace of Eve-teasing
• India-US relations
• Jet Airways Crisis
• India’s role in its neighboring countries
• Is internet curbing creativity?
• Is the concept of non-violence still applicable?
• Effects of video games on well-being
• Ethical manager vs Effective manager
• Are celebrities treated unfairly by media?
• Corporate Social Responsibility – Charity or Marketing gimmick?
• Can celebrities make good politicians?
• Are Leaders born or made?
• Technocrats should not become bureaucrats
• “America First” Policy : Good or bad for World Geopolitics?
• Millennial Voters – Can they decide the future of India?
• Coaching centers are destroying education
• India has a long coastal line. Is it an advantage or Liability?
• Youth empowerment is necessary for any country’s development. According to you what should India focus on, for Youth empowerment?
• India’s E-commerce policy – Impact on E-commerce industry
• India – Pakistan relations
• Big Data and Information Privacy – A future challenge
• Modernisation of armed forces
• India’s foreign policy
• Who is the true ally of India?
• India is a fast developing country. Despite this, people at the bottom are not benefiting of it. In your view, what is the reason behind it?
• Coalition politics in India
• The Future of Cryptocurrencies
• Should artistic expression be monitored by law?
• NYAY – Can it eliminate poverty?
• Impact of News channels on society
• India-China relations
• Black or Grey – Abstract GD Topic
• Moody’s rating upgrade – Impact on India’s economy
• Sustainable development hampers industrial progress
• Is India ready for 5G?
• Open economy – Role of MNCs in India
• Traffic problems in India
• Is war the best way to solve international disputes?
• Roots & wings – Abstract GD topic
• EVMs vs Paper Ballots
• Should public sector banks be privatized?
• Mental illness in India
• India’s fight against Terrorism | Pulwama Terror attacks
• Plastic Money – Advantages & Disadvantages
• The Fall of Facebook
• Recapitalization of Banks
• Walls are dead – Abstract GD Topic
• Challenges in the IT industry
• How can we reduce wealth gap between Rich & Poor?
• Brexit – Impact on India?
• Censorship of Web series – Pros & Cons
• Information overload – GD Topic
• Should Military training be made compulsory for all in India?
• Famous or Important – Abstract GD Topic
• Might is always right
• Affordable Healthcare in India
• Insolvency and bankruptcy code
• If Third World War happens, what will be the possible reason behind it?
• Freebie politics in India
• Role of India in United Nations
• Universal Basic Income – Pros & Cons
• G20 – GD Topic
• Surrogacy (Regulation) Bill – GD Topic
• Should Aadhaar be made mandatory?
• Should Fintech firms and Banks be collaborated?
• Innovation vs Invention – What is more important?
• Impact of Technology on jobs
• What is the biggest problem that India is facing?
• Unemployment Allowance – Pros & Cons
• Should adultery be criminalized?
• Fugitive Economic Offenders Act
• The menace of Trolling
• Can women be in combat roles?
• Gene-edited babies project – Pros & Cons
• How to solve the issue of pending cases in Indian courts
• Should organ donation be made compulsory?
• Industrial Revolution 4.0
• Markets are found not created
• Movies encourage social evils
• Blockchain Technology – Pros & Cons
• Pink – Abstract GD Topic
• Statue of unity – GD Topic
• Ayushman Bharat – Will it achieve Universal Health coverage in India?
• Data is the new Oil
• #MeToo – GD Topic
• Success – GD Topic
• Decriminalization of Homosexuality – Road ahead for LGBTQ community of India
• Detention policy – Pros & Cons
• Right to be forgotten
• News channels – Breaking rules to give Breaking news
• Live-in relationships in India
• End of Globalization
• Joint family vs Nuclear family
• Impact of falling rupee on Indian economy
• Child marriages in India
• Should Delhi be given statehood?
• Social Media – Impact on human behavior and society
• Co-education (Mixed gender education) – Pros & Cons
• One year of GST
• Interlinking of rivers – Pros & Cons
• Relevance of WTO in today’s global scenario
• Plastic Pollution
• Should street food be banned?
• Facebook – Cambridge Analytica data scandal
• EU’s GDPR – Impact on India
• Public perception of the Police – How can it be improved?
• Flipkart-Walmart deal – Impact on India
• Digital Revolution – Pros & Cons
• US withdrawal from Iran nuclear deal – Impact on India
• High fuel prices in India – What are the causes?
• Freedom is a myth
• Water scarcity in India
• Do brands rule our lives?
• Can ‘Death penalty’ deter child rapes?
• Exam paper leaks – How to restore trust in the Indian education system?
• US-China Trade war – Impact on USA, China & other countries
• Portrayal of women in Indian cinema
• Should there be a ban on Bandhs?
• Private Universities in India – Pros and Cons
• How can banks prevent Nirav Modi-Like scams?
• Door – Abstract GD Topic
• Allowing Ayurveda, Homeopathy doctors to practice Modern medicine – Pros & Cons
• 7th pay commission – Pros & Cons
• Compulsory Yoga in schools – Pros and Cons
• Is ‘NITI Ayog’ a success?
• Will artificial intelligence take away jobs?
• Should the rich and wealthy in India be taxed more?
• Impact of Brexit on Indian Economy
• Is there a need to curb the mushrooming of private coaching institutes?
• Should India sign CTBT & NPT ?
• Light pollution – A new threat
• Zero – Abstract GD Topic
• Are we forgetting our seven Sisters?
• Despite a large population, India lacks knowledge power
• Dot – Abstract GD Topic
• Is Indian culture decaying?
• Use of Renewable energy in India
• Son of the Soil approach in recruitment – Good or Bad?
• Are CCTV cameras in public places effective or just an invasion of privacy?
• Should both developed and underdeveloped countries have equal binding in combating climate change?
• Does Nepotism exist in Bollywood?
• Do small companies have more harmony?
• Job vs Entrepreneurship
• Rise of Patanjali – Marketing lessons to learn
• The key to India’s prosperity is Agriculture
• Indiscriminate Tourism will lead to environmental damage
• MBAs do not make good business leaders
• Red – Abstract GD Topic
• Rising stalking cases – Where is the problem?
• Why is India one of the biggest defence equipment importer?
• Involving Army in civil tasks – Right or Wrong?
• Has Reliance jio changed the telecom sector of India?
• Cauvery River Dispute
• One Rank One Pension – Advantages and Disadvantages
• Should Politics and Business be mixed?
• In what way Payment Banks are useful?
• Does corporate world promote entrepreneurship?
• FDI in retail – Boon or Bane?
• Money spent on space exploration can be better used on reducing poverty on earth
• City vs Village
• Trial by Media – Pros and Cons
• Should mobile phones be allowed in schools & colleges?
• How can tourism be improved?
• Can the world economy bank upon India for growth?
• Should ‘Right to Privacy’ have limits?
• Should ‘Freedom of expression’ have limits?
• Startup India Standup India : Success or Failure?
• Is ‘Jan Dhan Yojana’ a success?
• Are women better managers than men?
• Judiciary Reforms in India
• Significance of BRICS in world economy
• Is Technology creating income inequalities?
• India-China relations post Doklam issue
• Status of sports in India
• Should Beauty pageants be banned?
• Right to Education: Success or Failure?
• Impact of ‘Internet of Things (IoT)’ on our lives
• Is India ready for Electric cars?
• Should Driverless cars be allowed in India?
• Impact of GST on Banking sector
• Is Globalization a threat to Indian Culture?
• Aadhaar-Mobile linking – Good or Bad?
• Beti Bachao Beti Padhao – a success?
• Should ‘Group Discussion’ be compulsory in the hiring process?
• Ethics in Politics – Myth or Reality?
• Fake News – Impact on society
• E-Commerce – Sustainable business model?
• Delhi’s Odd-Even Rule : a success?
• Should India adopt two time zones?
• Impact of Technology on Banking sector
• Common syllabus throughout Indian schools – Pros & Cons
• Unemployment in India
• Corruption in India
• How can Indo-Pak relations be improved?
• Impact of Video games on youth
• Digital payments in India
• Role of engineers in disaster management
• Is MBA a rat race?
• US-Mexico border wall – Good or Bad?
• Challenges to Indian Banking sector
• ‘One Nation One Election’ – Pros & Cons?
• Child labour in India
• Climate Change – What can we do about it?
• Artificial intelligence (AI) – Pros & Cons
• Human Gene editing – Good or Bad?
• Brexit – Pros and Cons
• Big Data – Pros & Cons
• Bullet trains in india – Is it a right step?
• NEET – Pros & Cons
• Make in India
• Hard Work vs Smart Work
• Impact of movies on youth
• How to eliminate the threat of Nuclear war?
• Green Card reforms – Beneficial for Indians?
• Jio’s business model – Sustainable or Not?
• Drug menace – How to fight with it?
• Will India emerge as a superpower in the near future?
• Can we rely on Cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin?
• How to tackle Naxalism?
• Impact of GST on Indian Economy
• Is censorship of movies an outdated concept?
• India’s population growth
• Should Hindi be the National language of India?
• Should kids’ reality shows be banned?
• How to reduce NPA?
• Merger of PSU banks – Is it really necessary?
• Digital India
• Is GST beneficial for the common man?
• Privatization of ‘Air India’ – Good or Bad?
• One Belt One Road – Impact on India
• Can ‘One Belt One Road’ improve developing world?
• Farm loan waivers – Good or Bad?
• Should Paper ballot system be restored?
• Why is Norway the world’s happiest country?
• Why are many startups failing in India?
• Should the Internet be censored?
• Why is India unhappy? – World Happiness Report
• Banks levying charges on cash transactions – Is it a good move?
• SBI merger with associate banks – Good or Bad?
• Cap on wedding expenditure – Is it fair?
• Ever growing air pollution levels – Where does the problem lie?
• Should Rapists be tortured?
• Farmer Suicides in India – What needs to be done?
• Tightening H-1B visa rules – Is it Fair?
• Has democracy hampered India’s progress?
• Can World Peace be achieved?
• Union Budget 2017-18 – Is it beneficial for the common man?
• Experimenting on Animals – Is it fair?
• Are Men silent sufferers in this modern world?
• Is Nationalism taking over Globalism?
• How can we deal with increasing Cyber Crimes?
• Should stray animals be killed?
• Will GST be a success?
• Is it time to replace Mahatma Gandhi’s picture on Indian currency notes?
• Can India turn ‘Brain Drain’ into ‘Brain Gain’?
• Is China a threat to India?
• Indian Business Schools – Are they really effective?
• Technology changing the face of education
• Unique identification number for every Indian
• Is it really worth to become a cashless economy?
• Should women be encouraged to work in night shifts?
• Should Homeschooling be encouraged in India?
• Should Uniforms be mandatory in schools?
• Social networking in our lives
• Role of digitization in banking
• Is India ready to be a Cashless Economy?
• India’s fight against ‘Black Money’
• Is India prepared enough to handle cyber attacks?
• Should Chinese products be banned in India?
• Impact of Social Media on youth
• Should Environment polluters be severely punished?
• Should there be a retirement age for politicians in India?
• Free WiFi Spots – Beneficial or not?
• Student Suicides – What are the deep rooted problems?
• Is online piracy inevitable?
• How can we stop ‘Honor Killings’?
• Will E-commerce dominate physical stores?
• How can river Ganga be cleaned?
• Parliamentary System vs Presidential System
• Can India get into NSG?
• Should India be given a permanent seat in UNSC?
• Population explosion – boon or bane?
• Should mother tongue be the medium of instruction in schools?
• Does UNSC need to be reformed?
• Should Fathers be given Paternity Leave?
• Is Technology rising Unemployment rates?
• Mobile towers in residential areas – harmful or not?
• Is hosting Olympics good for the host country?
• How can slums be improved?
• Future of Sports in India
• India’s obsession with Gold – How it affects Indian Economy?
• Love Marriage vs Arranged Marriage
• Is Reservation for women justified?
• Does Censor Board need to be reformed?
• Is IPL a boon or bane for Indian cricket?
• Swachh Bharat Abhiyan – How far was it successful?
• Is Educational qualification necessary for Politicians?
• Do business and ethics go hand in hand?
• Alcohol Ban – Pros and Cons
• Paperless office – could it be a reality?
• Eastern vs Western- which parenting style is better?
• Should attendance be made compulsory for students?
• Should betting and gambling be legalized in India?
• Aadhaar Act
• Specialization vs Generalization
• Youth in Politics
• Smart Cities Mission – Benefits & Challenges
• Net neutrality
• Direct Benefit Transfer (DBT) Scheme – Pros and Cons
• Should attempt to suicide be decriminalized?
• Does India need smaller states?
• Women’s Reservation Bill
• Should death penalty be abolished?
• The Lokpal and Lokayuktas Act
• Should Homosexuality be legalized?
• NOTA – Is it a good step?
• National Food Security Bill – Pros and Cons
• Demographic Dividend in India
• Depreciation of Indian Rupee
• Should zoos be abolished?
• Women Empowerment in India
• Present Education System in India
• Role of NGOs in India
• Is FDI good for India?
• Generation Gap
• E-waste management
• Relevance of Gandhi in modern world.
• Social networking sites – Boon or Bane?
• Genetically modified products – Boon or bane?
• How to deal with international terrorism?
• Are Big Dams Necessary?
• Is China a threat to Indian software industry?
• Is the Patents Bill Good for India?
• Are we serious about saving Wildlife and Environment?
• Is dependence on computers a good thing?
• Internet – boon or bane?
• Voting rights to illiterates – illogical?
• Should agricultural subsidies be stopped?
• Brain drain has to be stopped
• Role of UN in Peace keeping.
• What can we do to eradicate poverty?
• Can Trade help the poor?
• Age and Youth: Experience And Young Talent
• Should Water Resources Be Nationalized?
• Indian villages – Our Strength or Weakness?
• Private Educational Institutions – Good or Bad?
• Is WikiLeaks a bane or a boon?
• Multinational Companies: Are they devils in disguise?
• Nuclear Energy in India – Boon or Bane?
• Do we need a fresh Reorganization of states?
• Should euthanasia / mercy killing be legalized?
• E-Learning: A substitute for classroom learning?
• Is Globalization Really Necessary?
• Bullet for Bullet: Is it a Right policy?
• Commercialization of health care : Good or Bad ?
• Media is a mixed blessing
• Balance between Profession and Family
• Examination – Has it killed Education?
• Privatization will lead to less corruption.
• Are Foreign television channels destroying our culture?
• Are Advertisements Beneficial or not?

This is the list of all Group Discussion topics written on this site. All these topics are relevant in 2024. Here you can find all types of GD topics such as Economy GD topics, Political GD topics, Environment GD topics, Group Discussion topics on current affairs etc.  You can also filter topics based on your exam. For example, if you are preparing for an SSB interview, you can find the exclusive list of Group Discussion Topics for SSB and if you are preparing for MBA entrance exams, you should check the exclusive list of Group Discussion Topics for MBA . GD round is usually conducted in schools and colleges and for campus recruitment, entrance examinations for MBA colleges, SSB interviews etc.

The above list is ordered datewise, which means the newly published post will be the first post on the list. If you want to see the list that is arranged category-wise, please check this page .

Didn’t find any topic here? let us know . We will write it for you. :)

If you want to listen to experts’ points of view on current issues, please check Big Picture program on Rajya Sabha TV. It’ll greatly help you in forming opinions on current affairs. References for most of our content are The Hindu newspaper, Eenadu Telugu newspaper, Mint newspaper and a few other authentic websites.

This list will be updated automatically with new posts. Outdated topics are regularly removed from this list. So, please bookmark this page to check the new posts. And subscribe to our blog to receive new topics in your inbox.

Photo by  fauxels  from  Pexels

Copyright @ Group Discussion Ideas.

Want to listen to this instead?

Subscribe to our YouTube channel . We upload videos on GD topics regularly.

Related Posts

142+ Latest SSB GD Topics 2024 (with answers)

414+ CAT GD topics 2024 (with Answers)

142+ Air Force GD Topics (with Answers) of 2024

Important GD Topics for July 2024

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies
• 3rd Party Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

This website uses Google Analytics to collect anonymous information such as the number of visitors to the site, and the most popular pages.

Keeping this cookie enabled helps us to improve our website.

Please enable Strictly Necessary Cookies first so that we can save your preferences!

• SUGGESTED TOPICS
• The Magazine
• Newsletters
• Managing Yourself
• Managing Teams
• Work-life Balance
• The Big Idea
• Data & Visuals
• Case Selections
• HBR Learning
• Topic Feeds
• Account Settings
• Email Preferences

Some Questions Benefit from Group Discussion. Others Don’t.

• Joshua Becker,
• Douglas Guilbeault,
• Edward “Ned” Smith

Research suggests the wisdom of the crowds falls short when it comes to yes-or-no questions.

Research on the concept of “collective intelligence” has shown that in many cases, groups tend to come up with more accurate estimates after discussing a question than individual experts do on their own. However, a new study found that while this holds true for quantitative questions — i.e., “How long will the project take?” — groups are actually less accurate than individuals when it comes to yes/no questions, such as, “Will the project be done before the deadline?” . Based on this nuanced distinction, the authors offer three strategies for managers to reap the benefits of group deliberation without falling prey to its downsides: Focus teams on discussing data, not predicting outcomes; separate “How Much?” questions from “Yes or No?” questions; and continuously capture data on group dynamics and team members’ strengths and weaknesses to inform future decision-making.

When you’ve got a difficult question to answer, do you consult multiple experts to get a sense of their individual views, or ask a group to deliberate together? Studies on the concept of collective intelligence suggests that when managed properly , asking a group can lead to more accurate estimates than simply averaging the recommendations of multiple independent advisors.

• JB Joshua Becker is an Assistant Professor of Organizations and Innovation at the UCL School of Management, University College London. Joshua’s research on collective intelligence and decision-making is informed by over 10 years’ experience as a practitioner in conflict mediation and decision facilitation.
• DG Douglas Guilbeault is an Assistant Professor in the Management of Organizations at the Haas School of Business, University of California, Berkeley. He is also a faculty affiliate at the Berkeley Institute for Data Science (BIDs). Douglas teaches People Analytics at Haas, and his research focuses on collective intelligence and organizational culture.
• ES Edward “Ned” Smith is an Associate Professor of Management and Organizations at Northwestern’s Kellogg School of Management. Ned’s research examines how people and organizations come to utilize (and sometimes squander) the resources available to them in their surrounding social networks. Ned is the co-director of Kellogg’s executive program on change management and teaches additional course on organizational design, strategic alliances, and causal inference.

Partner Center

• Testimonial
• Web Stories

Learning Home

Not Now! Will rate later

100 Most Important GD Topics for 2021

GD Topics for MBA Exam

• Should anonymity be allowed on the internet?
• Do deadlines destroy creativity?
• Work from home – Pros & Cons
• How will 2020 shape 2021?
• Lessons for the world from COVID-19 pandemic
• Is Technology making us less human?
• NYAY – Can it eliminate poverty?
• Impact of ‘Internet of Things (IoT)’ on our lives
• In absence of stringent laws Nirbhayas will be repeated.
• Khap Panchayats are not tenable in the modern society.
• Have we become a cynical society?
• Dot com or doubt com?
• If Winning isn’t everything, why do they Keep the Score?
• NOTA is the emerging priority of the citizens. Is it right to continue it?
• Is India leading in competitive backwardness?
• COVID: Is veganism the answer?
• Are we becoming too sensitive a society?
• Law against religious conversion: Does it hamper freedom of matrimonial choice?
• Decisive Interview, GD & Essay prep
• GD: Topics 2021
• GD: Approach
• GD: Do's and Don'ts
• GD: Communications
• Solved GDs Topics

GD Introduction

• Types of GD topics: Techniques
• GD: Ettiquette
• GD: Content
• Solved Case Studies
• Group Discussions
• Personality
• Past Experiences

Most Popular Articles - PS

100 Group Discussion (GD) Topics for MBA 2024

Solved GDs Topic

Top 50 Other (Science, Economy, Environment) topics for GD

5 tips for starting a GD

GD FAQs: Communication

GD FAQs: Content

Stages of GD preparation

Group Discussion Etiquettes

Case Study: Tips and Strategy

MBA Case Studies - Solved Examples

Practice Case Studies: Long

Practice Case Studies: Short

5 tips for handling Abstract GD topics

5 tips for handling a fish market situation in GD

5 things to follow: if you don’t know much about the GD topic

Do’s and Don’ts in a Group Discussion

5 tips for handling Factual GD topics

How to prepare for Group Discussion

Group Discussion– Why is it important to a CA?

Most Group Discussions have much less than a 25% passing rate i.e best 2 applicants out of eight qualify for the next round. GD in CA Interviews commonly focuses on the technical & problem-fixing competencies of the applicants.

Group Discussions are nearly ubiquitous for all Interviews that a CA Fresher faces.

One of my seniors advised me once - "Group Discussions are a pretty Organised mass slaughter". 

Most Group Discussions have much less than a 25% passing rate i.e best 2 applicants out of eight qualify for the next round. GD in CA Interviews commonly focuses on the technical & problem-fixing competencies of the applicants. But you require command over your voice & a character to influence the discussion towards you. 

Most GDs turn out to be a fish market, there will usually be that single man or woman who is getting to dominate the complete discussion and there will usually be instances where the undeserving applicants get selected.

 So cracking a Group Discussion needs proper guidance and a lot of practice. In order to achieve it, first, we need to know what exactly are the topics that can be asked for a group discussion.

Common Group Discussion Topics for CA

In CA Interviews, Group Discussions are often classified into 2 categories:

1. General Topics

2. Case Study Topics

1. General topics

Here the companies give either an easy topic or a Technical Topic to debate 

a) Simple Topics - These aren't usually asked in the CA Interviews. Sometimes there can be few current affairs that are asked as Group Discussion topics. 

The following are such examples

* Goldman Sacs - Should Uniforms be made obligatory in Work Places

* Olam International (Multiple Rounds of GD) - Are CAs' better than MBAs'?

* Vedanta - Apple is more about Status symbols instead of Innovation.

b) Technical Topics - Most Group Discussion Rounds have a Technical Topic.

* Vedanta - Role of Mining & Extraction in India's GDP (It was given due to the fact Vedanta is engaged in the business of Extraction of Minerals)

* Vedanta - is that the business version of Reliance Jio sustainable? Other Hot Topics -

• Internal Financial Control
• Impact of GST
• Role of CAs in detecting Fraud

2. Case Study topics

Most of the companies recruiting for high-paying positions ( Eg - Deloitte , ITC , BPCL, ABG, Marico, etc.) deliver a Case Study in the Group Discussion round in place of asking a Generic Topic. 

For the CA Freshers who have not really mastered a Case Study, this may be pretty overwhelming.  

The judges sitting out there are not professionals, they are the directors of the company who're being attentive to equal points. Feed them something different. In the ITC Case Study, we had been requested to pick out the best man or woman to lead a set of stranded passengers on a crashed flight. There was a commando among the passengers. Everyone had haunted the placement that the Pilot became skilled and could lead the institution. But a friend of mine, who was silent for the complete discussion, apart from that one minute where he keeps on argued that Commandos are given guerrilla training and are known for his or her passion, dedication & integrity and hence that commando became the proper man or woman to steer the institution.

Gain the eye of the Judges

In the BPCL Interview, we were given a case study on the manner to select ethics over your job security. Everyone was arguing at the same factors on a way to develop Goodwill & how Ethics in valued in CA Profession. During my very personal turn, I raised the practical components of the way that is frequently now no longer viable in the world, and that we have to look for a workaround that's both ethical & might additionally save my own job. The applicants sitting beside me lauded me after the interview for the points I had raised however when the results were out, I was rejected. The cause being I became the ultimate one to elevate my point & I became not loud enough for the judges to be attentive towards me. So gaining attention is very important irrespective of the amount of knowledge an individual has.

The primary applicants who get rejected are those who do not even speak. Take that braveness and acquire from your shell, and show your views on the matter.

Learning the tips and tricks from professionals or taking up a course can come in very handy. The Getting Interview Ready workshop helps you crack the GD and gives you the necessary pointers

* How to utilize the time given for preparation?

*Practice at least 3 GDs and feedback from industry experts 

*Do's and don'ts in a GD

*5 Pro tips to ace Group Discussions

*Resolve all your doubts

*Trending GD topics

and other such interview prep tips.

 Give a concise summary of the group discussion. Prepare well and have the right subject knowledge. The group discussion may be a wonderful medium to broaden and enhance leadership and overall communication skills by the side of showcasing your domain knowledge. This is the reason maximum companies have a set discussion session as part of their hiring process. Speak only when relevant. Your overall personality and knowledge-based talent level may be judged by comparing your overall performance in a group discussion. So prepare well and with confidence, get ahead for your profession with all the mentioned group discussion tips.

 All The Best !!

Subscribe to our Newsletter

Follow us on:, interview prep.

• Interview Preparation Workshop
• Articleship Training Workshop
• CA Monk Placement Drive
• Company Guides
• Aptitude Test
• Free Resources

Masterclass

• Statutory Audit
• Investment Banking
• Management Consulting
• Excel Mastery
• Financial Modeling
• Alteryx For Data Analytics
• Pyhton For Finance

Popular Articles

• Crush interviews with 8 tricks
• 16 questions Big 4 asks
• How Analytics Empowers CAs
• Mentorship is vital for CAs
• Digital Marketing For CAs

Partnership

• Hire From CA Monk
• Become A Mentor
• Careers @ CA Monk
• 1:1 Mentorship
• Student Mentorship
• Resume Review
• Mock Interview
• Resume Scorer
• AI Interview Bot
• Articleship Scorer
• Salary Estimator
• Free Courses
• Finance Jobs
• Testimonials
• Wall Of Fame
• Verify Certificate
• Privacy Policy
• Refund Policy
• Terms & Conditions

Copyright © CA MONK. All rights reserved.

You may also be interested in

Impact of concrete durability improvement on building life cycle carbon emissions: a case study of residential buildings in Northwest China

• Research Article
• Published: 18 September 2024

Cite this article

• Xiangchen Zhu 1 ,
• Zhiyong Liu 2 ,
• Yunsheng Zhang 1 ,
• Hongxia Qiao 1 &
• Qiming Zhou 1  

Building carbon emissions (CE) have become the focus of the current topic, but there is still no mature typical building life cycle theory method from the perspective of building materials, and the research on the relationship between building durability and building life cycle is still insufficient. To this end, this study established a detailed calculation method for building carbon emissions (CE) and divided the building life cycle (BLC) into three stages: manufacturing, use, and demolition according to the result analysis. In addition, a durability improvement and carbon reduction scheme of “partition, resistance, and repair” is proposed, and the carbon emission reduction index of effectiveness index is proposed. The proposed method is applied to the case of residential buildings in Northwest China. The main conclusions are as follows: the CE of residential buildings are more dependent on the use stage. If the centralized heating system is adopted, the CE in the operation stage account for 80–90%. If the air conditioning refrigeration and heating system is adopted, the CE in the operation stage account for about 50%. Using the method of improving the durability of buildings to extend the service life of buildings is very significant for building carbon reduction (RC); the effectiveness index proposed in this paper includes key indicators such as total CE, service life, and building area. Compared with the traditional index, the effectiveness index is more accurate and comprehensive. CR is the focus of green building, but the impact of economy needs to be considered in practical engineering. In the future research, durability, CE, and economy need to be considered comprehensively for careful study.

This is a preview of subscription content, log in via an institution to check access.

Access this article

Subscribe and save.

• Get 10 units per month
• Download Article/Chapter or eBook
• 1 Unit = 1 Article or 1 Chapter
• Cancel anytime

Price includes VAT (Russian Federation)

Instant access to the full article PDF.

Rent this article via DeepDyve

Institutional subscriptions

Explore related subjects

• Environmental Chemistry

Data availability

Some or all data, models, or code that support the findings of this study are available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request.

Adem A, Nihat A (2015) Life cycle energy (LCEA) and carbon dioxide emissions (LCCO 2 A) assessment of two residential buildings in Gaziantep, Turkey. Energy and Buildings 102:417–431

Article   Google Scholar  

Basheer L, Cleland D (2005) Freeze-thaw resistance of concretes treated with pore liners. Constr Build Mater 20(10):990–998

Bhatia, Pankaj, Cynthia E et al (2011) Greenhouse gas protocol product life cycle accounting and reporting standard

Brühwiler E (2009) Improving safety and durability of civil structures. In: Ibrahimbegovic A, Zlatar M (eds) Damage Assessment and Reconstruction after War or Natural Disaster. Springer Netherlands, p 63–93

Bryan H, FAIA F, Grimm M (2009) Creating a building carbon emission performance standard. In 38th ASES National Solar Conference 2009, SOLAR 2009, pp 1656–1685

Chau C, Leung T, Ng W (2015) A review on life cycle assessment, life cycle energy assessment and life cycle carbon emissions assessment on buildings. Appl Energy 143:395–413

Chen C, Hu D, Wen Q et al (2007) Resource depletion and environmental discharge of cement production in China. J Anhui Agric Sci 28:8986–8989

Google Scholar  

Cuce E, Cuce PM, Wood C et al (2024) Experimental investigation of internal aerogel insulation towards low/zero carbon buildings: a comprehensive thermal analysis for a UK building. Sustain Clean Build 1(1):1–22. https://ojs.wiserpub.com/index.php/scb/article/view/4072 . Accessed 25 Dec 2023

Cui X, Liao C, Li M (2011) Investigation and research on heat collection area of solar water heating system of highrise residential building. Build Technol 42(01):38–42

Dang Y, Xie N, Kessel A et al (2014) Accelerated laboratory evaluation of surface treatments for protecting concrete bridge decks from salt scaling. Constr Build Mater 55:128–135

DIN EN 1504–1–2005 (2005) Products and systems for the protection and repair of concrete structures — definitions, requirements, quality control and evaluation of conformity—part 1: definitions

DIN EN 1504 (2009) Products and systems for the protection and repair of concrete structures. Definitions, requirements, quality control and evaluation of conformity. Structural and non-structural repair. European Standard.

DOE (2021) Emission factors for greenhouse gas inventories, DOE/EIA

Erdem C, Mert C, Emre A et al (2023) Experimental performance assessment of a novel insulation plaster as an energy-efficient retrofit solution for external walls: a key building material towards low/zero carbon buildings. Case Stud Therm Eng 49:103350

Fieldson R, Rai D, Sodagar B (2009) Towards a framework for early estimation of lifecycle carbon footprinting of buildings in the UK. Constr Inf Q 11(2):66–75

Freitag S, Bruce S (2010) The influence of surface treatments on the service lives of concrete bridges. Engineering, Materials Science

GB/T 30559.2–2017 (2017) Energy performance of elevators, escalators and moving walkways - part 2: energy calculation and classification of elevators

GHG Protocol (2011) Product life cycle accounting and reporting standard. An Accounting and Reporting Standard for Cities Version 1.1

GjØrv OE (2015) Durability design of concrete structures in server environments, 2nd edn. CRC Press, China Building Materials Industry Press

Gong Z (2004) A quantitative method to the assessment of the life cycle embodied environmental profile of building materials. Tsinghua University

Gong X, Nie Z, Wang Z et al (2012) Life cycle energy consumption and carbon dioxide emission of residential building designs in Beijing. J Ind Ecol 16(4):576–587

Article   CAS   Google Scholar  

Guggemos A, Horvath A (2005) Comparison of environmental effects of steel- and concrete-framed buildings. J Infrastruct Syst 11(2):93–101

Han J, Zhao C, Wang M et al (2010) CO 2 emission status and emission reduction analysis of China’s cement industry. J Hainan Univ (Nat Sci Ed) 28(03):252–256

Hooton D, Bickley A (2014) Design for durability: the key to improving concrete sustainability. Constr Build Mater 67:422–430

Hu Q (2009) Key indicators of design theory on engineering structures in the whole life-cycle. Zhejiang University

Hung L, FlorinConstantin M, Anna B et al (2023) Life cycle assessment of river sand and aggregates alternatives in concrete. Materials 16(5):2064–2064

Hungerbühler K, Boucher J, Pereira C et al (2021) Life cycle assessment of chemical products and processes. In: Chemical Products and Processes. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-030-62422-4_5 .

IPCC (1990) Climate change: the IPCC scientific assessment.In: Houghton JT, Jenkins GJ, Ephraunms JJ (eds) Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, pp 67–105

IPCC (2006) 2006 IPCC guidelines for national greenhouse gas inventories, Japan: the Institute for Global Environmental Strategies (IGES)

IPCC (2019) The 2019 Refinement to the 2006 IPCC guidelines for national greenhouse gas inventories. Tokyo, Japan

Jiang Y, Qin Y, Zhu Y (2004) Research on evaluation system of Green Olympic buildings. China Hous Facil 05:9–14

Jin W, Zhao Y (2014) Durability of concrete structures, 2nd edn. Science Press, Beijing

Kargol A, Müller U, Gardei A (2013) Properties and performance of silane: blended cement systems. Mater Struct 46(9):1429–1439

Kikuchi R (2001) Recycling of municipal solid waste for cement production: pilot-scale test for transforming incineration ash of solid waste into cement clinker. Resour Conserv Recycl 31(2):137–147

Levine M, Ürge-Vorsatz D, Blok K et al (2007) Residential and commercial buildings. In: Metz B, Davidson OR, Bosch PR, Dave R and Meyer LA (eds) Climate Change 2007: Mitigation. Contribution of Working Group III to the Fourth Assessment Report of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change. Cambridge University Press, Cambridge, UK

Li Y (2022) Green and low-carbon manufacturing technology for cement and concrete. China Building and Construction Press

Li L, Guo S, Zhang Y (2010) The quantitative relationship between cement product varieties, energy consumption and CO 2 emission. Build Mater Dev Orientation 8(01):29–35

Li D, Chen H, Hui C et al (2013) A methodology for estimating the life-cycle carbon efficiency of a residential building. Build Environ 59:448–455

Liu N (2014) Research on carbon emission calculation and emission reduction strategies of building based on life cycle assessment. Shijiazhuang Railway University

Liu J (2023) Research on durability and life prediction of waterborne epoxy coated reinforced concrete underharsh environment. Yantai university

Luo Z (2016) Study on calculation method of building life cycle CO 2 emission and emission reduction strategies. Xi’an University of Architecture and Technology

Luo Z, Yang L, Liu J et al (2011) Research on CO 2 emission calculation method and co 2 reduction strategies of building materials. Build Sci 27(04):1–8. https://doi.org/10.13614/j.cnki.11-1962/tu.2011.04.001

McGettigan E (1990) Application mechanism of silane weatherproofers. Concr Int 12(10):66–68

CAS   Google Scholar  

Mert C, Ayşe P, Erdem C et al (2024) Internal or external thermal superinsulation towards low/zero carbon buildings? A Critical Report. Gazi J Eng Sci: N Pag. https://doi.org/10.30855/gmbd.07050777

National Bureau of Statistics of China (2013) National economy and society developed statistical bulletin 2013. http://www.stats.gov.cn/tjsj/zxfb/201402/t20140224_514970 . Accessed 5 Jan 2024

National Bureau of Statistics of China (2023) China Statistical Yearbook

Ng T (2012) Carbon dioxide reduction in the building life cycle: a critical review. Proc Inst Civ Eng - Eng Sustain 165(ES4):281–292

Ng A, Geoff B (2006) Techniques to combat corrosion of steel in concrete.

Norbert D (2009) 6-Methods of crack repair in concrete structures. Failure, distress and repair of concrete structures. Woodhead Publishing, pp 169–193

Nosouhian F, Mostofinejad D, Hasheminejad H (2016) Concrete durability improvement in a sulfate environment using bacteria. J Mater Civ Eng 28(1):04015064–04015064

Peng C (2016) Calculation of a building’s life cycle carbon emissions based on ecotect and building information modeling. J Clean Prod 112:453–465

Petrova T, Chistyakov E, Makarov Y (2018) Methods of road surface durability improvement. Transp Res Procedia 36:586–590

Radhi H, Sharples S (2013) Global warming implications of facade parameters: a life cycle assessment of residential buildings in Bahrain. Environ Impact Assess Rev 38:99–108

Ramesh T, Prakash R, Shukla K (2010) Life cycle energy analysis of buildings: an overview. Energy Build 42(10):1592–1600

Research Group on China’s Energy Development Strategy and Policy (2004) Research on China’s energy development strategy and policy. Economic Science Press, Beijing, pp 63–66

Rzezniczak A (2010) Durability of repair techniques of fine cracks in concrete. McMaster University

Sandeford P, Bendell G, Mansoor A (2009) Corrosion management strategy for reinforced concrete wharf infrastructure located at the mouth of the Brisbane River. Corros Mater 34:32–37

Serres N, Braymand S, Feugeas F (2006) Environmental evaluation of concrete made from recycled concrete aggregate implementing life cycle assessment. J Build Eng 5:24–33

Su X, Zhang X, Sun Y (2011) A new algorithm for life cycle inventory analysis of reproducible materials. J Tongji Univ (Nat Sci) 39(10):1528–1530+1547

Tait MW, Cheung WM (2016) A comparative cradle-to-gate life cycle assessment of three concrete mix designs. Int J Life Cycle Assess 21:847–860

Tittarelli F, Moriconi G (2008) The effect of silane-based hydrophobic admixture on corrosion of reinforcing steel in concrete. Cem Concr Res 38(11):1354–1357

Ty01–31–2015 (2015) Consumption quota of housing construction and decoration works, Beijing

Wang L (2009) Calculation of CO 2 emissions of cement production enterprises. China Cem 11:21–22

Wang Z, Fan L, Mark H (2011) Life-cycle assessment of CO 2 emissions of buildings. International Conference on Remote Sensing, Environment and Transportation Engineering, pp 438–441

Wu H, Cui S, Wang Z (2006) LCA for cement production in China. China Build Mater Sci Technol 03:50–54

Xu Y (2002) Migrating corrosion inhibitor - a new development of corrosion inhibitors for steel bar in concrete. Kuei Suan Jen Hsueh Pao/ J Chin Ceram Soc 30:94–101

Xu Z, Wu Y, Zhang Z et al (2023) A review on the research progress of LDHs as corrosion inhibitors for reinforced concrete. J Build Eng 70:106303

Yan Y (2011) Research of energy consumption and CO 2 emission of buildings in Zhejiang Province Based on Life Cycle Assessment. Zhejiang University

Yan H, Shen Q, Fan L et al (2010) Greenhouse gas emissions in building construction: a case study of One Peking in Hong Kong. Build Environ 45(4):949–955

Yang P, Li W, Zhao T (2012) Protective effect of surface coatings on concrete. J Silic 40(11):1613–1617

You F, Hu D, Zhang H et al (2011) Carbon emissions in the life cycle of urban building system in China—a case study of residential buildings. Ecol Complex 8(2):201–212

Yu H (2004) Study on high performance concrete in salt lake: durability, mechanism and service life prediction. Southeast University

Zhang T (2018) System based on total life cycle research of low-carbon bridge evaluation. China University of Mining and Technology

Zhang X, Wang F (2015) Life-cycle assessment and control measures for carbon emissions of typical buildings in China. Build Environ 86:89–87

Zhang C, Li W, Fan J et al (2019) Study on durability of concrete structures strengthened by different protective coatings. Concrete 12:165–168

Zhang XC, Liu KH, Zhang ZH (2020) Life cycle carbon emissions of two residential buildings in China: comparison and uncertainty analysis of different assessment methods. J Clean Prod 266:122037

Zhao P, Tong J, Ma J (2004) The research on the system of the building material environment load index and evaluate. Chin Build Mater Sci Technol 13(6):1

Zhu X, Zhang Y, Liu Z et al (2023) Research on carbon emission reduction of manufactured sand concrete based on compressive strength. Constr Build Mater 403. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.conbuildmat.2023.133101 .

Download references

This paper is supported by the National Natural Science Foundation of China (U21A20150, 52178216, 52008196) and the Science and Technology Program of Gansu Province (23JRRA799).

Author information

Authors and affiliations.

School of Civil Engineering, Gansu Advanced Civil Engineering Materials Engineering Research, Center, Lanzhou University of Technology, Lanzhou, 730050, Gansu, China

Xiangchen Zhu, Yunsheng Zhang, Hongxia Qiao & Qiming Zhou

Jiangsu Key Laboratory of Civil Engineering Materials, School of Materials Science and Engineering, Southeast University, Nanjing, 211189, China

Zhiyong Liu

You can also search for this author in PubMed   Google Scholar

Contributions

Writing—original draft preparation and conceptualization: Xiangchen Zhu; data curation, funding acquisition: Zhiyong Liu, Yunsheng Zhang, Hongxia Qiao; validation: Qiming Zhou.

Corresponding author

Correspondence to Yunsheng Zhang .

Ethics declarations

Ethics approval.

This study does not involve any ethical issues.

Consent to participate

All authors have read and approved this version of the article, and due care has been taken to ensure the integrity of the work.

Consent for publication

All authors have agreed to publish.

Competing interests

The authors declare no competing interests.

Additional information

Responsible Editor: José Dinis Silvestre

Publisher's Note

Springer Nature remains neutral with regard to jurisdictional claims in published maps and institutional affiliations.

Rights and permissions

Springer Nature or its licensor (e.g. a society or other partner) holds exclusive rights to this article under a publishing agreement with the author(s) or other rightsholder(s); author self-archiving of the accepted manuscript version of this article is solely governed by the terms of such publishing agreement and applicable law.

Reprints and permissions

About this article

Zhu, X., Liu, Z., Zhang, Y. et al. Impact of concrete durability improvement on building life cycle carbon emissions: a case study of residential buildings in Northwest China. Environ Sci Pollut Res (2024). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11356-024-34883-6

Download citation

Received : 26 April 2024

Accepted : 28 August 2024

Published : 18 September 2024

DOI : https://doi.org/10.1007/s11356-024-34883-6

Share this article

Anyone you share the following link with will be able to read this content:

Sorry, a shareable link is not currently available for this article.

Provided by the Springer Nature SharedIt content-sharing initiative

• Life-cycle carbon emissions
• Durability improvement
• Carbon emission
• Emission factors
• Carbon reduction
• Find a journal
• Publish with us
• Track your research