Types of Group Discussions and Topics
MBA 2017 GWPI Preparation — Part I
Group Discussion — Types and Topics
Group discussions is a process where a group of people debate upon a topic, exchange ideas, opinions and information. Group Discussion serves as a mass elimination process for colleges and corporate during their hiring process.
Why is Group Discussion important?
A group discussion is an effective process to assess a candidate’s interpersonal skills; essential for an MBA student. These soft skills include communication, teamwork and ability to interact with other group members. It is also used by recruiters to assess candidates on their interpersonal, leadership and problem-solving skills.
CAT results are due in January 2018. This would be a good time to start your prep for group discussion and getting yourself acquainted with the different types would be the first step in performing better.
GoCheck App brings to you the different types of group discussions and a couple of topics for you to practice. There are two main categories of group discussions that are followed in general:
- Topic-Based
- Case-Based
Topic-Based
Topic-based discussion revolves around a specific topic given to the group. This is further classified into three groups:
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Current Affairs: topics cover the latest major events that have occurred in the nation and around the world. Examples:
- President Trump pulled out of the Paris Agreement this May. With the world’s largest economy and second biggest carbon emitter out, would other countries follow the lead?
- The education system is my biggest disappointment about India, says Bill Gates
- Rise and fall and rise of digital currencies
Economics/Social/Political/ Business: Business and Economics based topics are frequently given for group discussions in IIMs, FMS, XLRI, MDI and other top B-Schools. These topics cover a range of economic, social, political and business issues faced by society. Examples:
- The rise of the startups: Are they as successful as envisaged?
- “Make in India” — a bust or a success?
- Has demonetization of 2016 adversely affected the Indian Economy?
- Is Aadhaar really useful for common people as claimed?
- Is Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) in retail sector good for India?
- The Union cabinet recently approved a bill criminalizing the Islamic practice of Triple Talaq.
Abstract topics: these topics are interesting as the interpretation of the topic would differ person-to-person. Intangible ideas are presented as topics and the group is required to discuss and put forth their views. Examples:
- Saffron
- To be or not to be
- Stairway to heaven
- Somewhere I belong
Case-Based
A case or a scenario is presented and the group as a whole has to arrive at a solution. Case studies selected try to simulate a real-life situation. There are incorrect answers or one perfect solution. The idea of the discussion is to get the candidates to think about the situation from different angles.
Our list of current affairs topics will be updated every week. Subscribe to our newsletter or download GoCheck App to receive weekly updates and connect with other MBA students.
