I love the internet! In fact I dare say I’d give up running water
to ensure I had access to the Internet.
Okay, I wouldn’t give up running water for the Internet but you get my
point. However, I’m saddened at the lack
of rhetoric and discussion found on the Internet today. The Internet allows for people from all over
the world to discuss important issues but I’ve found people don’t often use
forums such as Facebook, Twitter, or even Blogs to discuss issues; it is used
as a way to argue, offend, and almost bully others rather than offer up
different ideas or solutions to current events and issues. It is easy to blame
our lack of discussion on the Internet but, I think the problem is a lack of
good old fashion manners.
Why
have discussions? Discussions help one
to understand a subject or topic area more deeply. Discussions help to explore ideas, to
exchange information, to expand and clarify one’s knowledge, to improve one’s
ability to think critically, to improve one’s language skills, to increase one’s
confidence in speaking. A discussion can
change your attitudes and ideas, can help you make a particular decision or
come to a conclusion, and gives you the chance to hear thoughts and ideas of
others.
I found a short
list of discussion etiquette that helped remind me of those important manners
to have so I can once again engage in the productive and interactive discussions
that I find myself craving at times.
1.
Always stay on topic. When one raises an issue that isn’t on topic
it often wastes time and prevents you from achieving a certain goal.
2.
When discussing, ask open-ended questions. An open-ended question doesn’t require a
specific answer. It is a question that
is designed to provoke thought.
3.
Don’t interrupt while someone else is speaking. It is rude!
Interrupting may also lead to conflict between you and the person you’re
discussing with. It is important that
everyone is allowed to express their ideas.
4.
If you disagree with a statement it is important
to disagree in a polite manner, “that idea will never work” or “your idea
doesn’t make sense” are not ways to disagree.
Try, “I see your point, but there are a number of problems that may
arise” or “that idea raises some serious issues”.
5.
Don’t put down other’s ideas. All ideas should be considered. No one’s should be ridiculed. Doing so may cause others to feel uneasy and not
want to express their ideas.
Discussions are
important events that allow people to brainstorm ideas or solutions to
problems. When people use proper etiquette,
the discussion will be extremely productive.
I’m going to start a Facebook group that will allow for open discussion
and sharing of different ideas. I hope
you’ll join the group and share your ideas with me.
References:
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