Tips for leading a discussion

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  • Think about the way you want the conversation to evolve and orient questions and discussion towards that direction. Often, this path is broad to specific and then back to broad
  • But don’t worry if the conversation takes a different direction. 
  • You have the added advantage of being a student so you can more freely share your own opinions (as compared to the instructor who needs to be careful about how and when he/she shares opinions)
  • Ask open-ended questions that require answers greater than yes/no. These are the sorts of questions that start with: How…Why… What…
  • Know your readings and why you chose them
  • Provide opportunity to apply lessons from the readings to different contexts: contemporary, historical, personal experiences
  • Ask for more information: Can you be more specific? What do you mean when you say X? What experiences have you had to lead you to believe X ?
  • Practice active listening. I hear the group try to wrangle with the idea of xxxx. Do I understand correctly?
  • Find central concepts and common or contrasting threads in the readings and explore those more deeply. 
  • Remember your classmates do have one pagers on the readings so, ask them to share what’s in there!
  • Google tips on leading a discussion and actively listening


Leading a discussion is different from teaching or providing information through a presentation. It's about the open exchange of ideas- no one is right or wrong. It's a process of thinking out loud and personal reflection. The role of a discussion lead is to facilitate this process. Worry less about what you think and more about understanding what others think as well as ensuring the group understands each other. The ability to do this well comes with practice and patience for yourself and others.

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