Information, Education and Communication: The Dialogue


The Dialogue:

A discussion carried on in front of a group by two knowledgeable people capable of thoughtful communicative discourse on a specific subject is called a dialogue. It is less formal than a lecture or a panel discussion and has many unique dynamics of its own.

Characteristics:

  1. It can be very informal and conversational.
  2. It allows direct and easy communication of information and points of view by the dialogue members, usually experts.
  3. It allows for mutual support and sharing of responsibility between two people.
  4. It allows for interpersonal stimulation.
  5. It aids unskilled speakers in presenting t heir ideas.
  6. It usually creates great interest among other members of the group.
  7. It is simple in form and easy to plan and carry out.
  8. It allows for clarification, logic, validation, and consistency as the discussion develops; And permits expression of two points of view.
  9. It allows for control of the frame work of the discussion but also permits flexibility as the discussion Progressescues from groups reaction may be picked up by the participants.
  10. Responsibility can be given to at least two group members for thought and fact gathering before a meeting.


Advantages:

  1. To present facts, opinions, or points of view in an informal, conversational manner.
  2. To create interest in a subject.
  3. To focus attention on an issue or problem.
  4. To explore in detail different points of view or obtain agreement on two or more points of view.
  5. To create a desire and motivation for reflective thinking.
  6. To rapidly set a frame-work for thought and miscussion and give basic facts preparatory to general Group discussion a dialogue can often revoce a controversial issue form the emotional group discussion setting and thus enable the group to approach the subject problem on a more rational basis.


How to use this method:

  1. Select a timely and significant topic with which at least two groups members(or outside resource people) are Familiar.
  2. Select dialogue team members. They should be able to work as a team, share leadership, guide the conversation, Integrate, summarize, and provide transitions and timing.
  3. Decide on the person perhaps the chairman of the meeting to introduce the dialogue, to take responsibility For receiving questions after dialogue and to lead the discussion.
  4. Arrange a meeting (or meetings, if needed) before the presentation at which an agreement should be reached on:
    1. the frame-work for discussion and the general area to be covered with a tentative outline.
    2. How the subject will be introduced and how the framework for discussion set:
    3. Tentative timing my major points.
    4. Responsibilities for summarizing and integrating and transitions from point to point.
  5. Arrange the physical setting so that all group members can see, hear, and feel a part of the dialogue situation.
  6. Fulfill the designated roles objectively and without over-emotional involvement.
  7. Return the meeting to the chairman for clarifying questions and summarization.