We model our sessions on the long running BBC Radio 4 programme, Any Questions? So that everybody is pro-actively involved, everyone comes armed with a question of topical interest, and a reserve question also should we find we have some time to spare in our session, for instance should some of our group be unable to attend. Each question should be allocated 12 minutes for discussion (this can be relaxed a little for a smaller group size), the idea being that the time is long enough for everyone to make a meaningful contribution, whilst short enough for everyone to be able to ask their question and feel fully involved. Numbers have been higher of late, even double figures, and this seems to be working, although it does mean everybody asking a question is not really achievable, 6 or perhaps 7 being the reality. The person asking the question can chair the debate on their own question, and will be able to add their own input, be it introduction or summary: however, in practice the chairing role tends to be picked up by the group leader. Questions should preferably be limited to 20 words, with 40 words as an absolute maximum - the questioner can, however, elaborate a little in the form of introduction.
1. Everybody listens respectfully to the points of view of others, even if they profoundly disagree. They will get their opportunity to articulate their own view.
2. The only person allowed to interrupt is the person chairing the discussion, on the basis of time management or relevance to the question. Larger numbers recently have resulted in an increase in people talking over one another and interrupting, which is not acceptable.
3. Keep to the subject of the question, and avoid going off on a tangent.
4. Anything personally abusive is strictly prohibited..
For meaningful debate which involves everyone, the group size should not be too large. This had previously been thought to be 8, but we have recently even reached double figures, which has seemed to work OK, provided there are not interruptions or secondary conversations going on. If more people show interest in future to make the group size unmanageable, then second and subsequent groups can be formed.
The first Thursday morning of every month from 10.30am to 12.30pm, with a 5/10 minute comfort break half way through. We will meet at Fort Stamford Health and Fitness Club. There will be a contribution to be paid of £2 per person, but no obligation to buy a drink, although your use of the bar is, of course, very welcome.
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