Discussion Norms

 What does that look like?

• Speaking passionately about the subject.

• Being prepared for the discussion.

• Not being on your phone.

• Making eye contact with everyone.  

• Having body language that shows you are open (looking at the group, sitting upright)

• Staying on topic.

• Looking at the speaker when they are talking.

• Really thinking about what the speaker is saying.  (not just thinking about what you want to say)

• Not having side conversations with others in the group.

 What does that look like?

• Sharing opinions and thoughts and support with your reasons.

• Moving on to different ideas after a while instead of repeating the same idea over and over again

• Adding on to the ideas of others

• Ask questions that add to the discussion rather than repeating what has been said.

• Being willing to question others respectfully

• Offering different opinions

• Asking questions for clarification

What does that look like?

• Ask listeners what they think and involving everyone in the discussion. 

• Not  ignoring other perspectives even if they are different than your own

• Being inclusive and making an effort not to offend or be hurtful 

• Being respectful of everyone’s opinion.  

• Being open to criticism or opinions that are different than your own. 

• Not raising your voice or arguing, instead talking kindly and calmly.

• Using the information you gather to challenge your own views

• Not focusing on convincing others or being right. 

What does this look like?

• Being articulate

• Speaking loud enough to be heard

• Speaking with confidence.

• Not reading off a paper or screen.  

• Taking risks and be confident in your stance

 What does that look like?

• Allowing others the opportunity to speak and knowing when to stop talking.

• Not cutting other people off while they are speaking.  

• Being concise in what you say.