What problems do you encounter with discussions involving [x] people?
(for x = 3 to 6): Keeping focus. In this group size everybody has a good chance to be heard and to contribute equally. This is good and well—as long as participants stay focussed. If two get engaged in a side topic the discussion may spontaneously split (and remerge) but focus is lost.
How have you attempted to remedy them?
Either by leading or at least moderating the discussion. Or acceptance of the splits. If the side topics have their own merit then it may be acceptable—at this group size.
I’d venture the guess that this could be a problem of early groups where no norms regarding this have formed osmotically.
I notice that having a large “FOCUS” card can help—if the group accepts that norm.
(for x = 3 to 6): Keeping focus. In this group size everybody has a good chance to be heard and to contribute equally. This is good and well—as long as participants stay focussed. If two get engaged in a side topic the discussion may spontaneously split (and remerge) but focus is lost.
Either by leading or at least moderating the discussion. Or acceptance of the splits. If the side topics have their own merit then it may be acceptable—at this group size.
I’d venture the guess that this could be a problem of early groups where no norms regarding this have formed osmotically.
I notice that having a large “FOCUS” card can help—if the group accepts that norm.