* Claims: These are statements that are asserted to be true. In a group discussion, participants might bring forward their own claims based on their knowledge, experiences, or research.
* Evidence: This is information that supports a claim. Evidence can come in various forms: facts, statistics, examples, expert opinions, etc.
* Synthesis: This is the process of combining claims and evidence to form a cohesive and logically coherent argument.
How does this build understanding and consensus?
* Clarity: When participants synthesize their claims and evidence, they force themselves to articulate their ideas clearly and logically. This makes their arguments easier for others to understand.
* Objectivity: By focusing on evidence, participants move away from personal opinions and biases, allowing for a more neutral and objective discussion.
* Collaboration: The act of synthesizing encourages participants to listen to each other's perspectives and consider different viewpoints. This fosters a more collaborative atmosphere.
* Reasoned conclusions: By examining the evidence together, the group can draw more informed conclusions and reach a consensus based on a shared understanding of the topic.
Example:
Imagine a group discussing the effectiveness of online learning. One participant might claim that online learning is more effective than traditional learning, citing studies that show higher student engagement. Another participant might disagree, pointing to studies that show a higher dropout rate in online courses. By synthesizing these claims and evidence, the group can move beyond individual opinions and arrive at a more nuanced understanding of the topic.
In summary, synthesizing claims and evidence is crucial for a productive group discussion because it helps participants:
* Clarify their thinking
* Build on each other's ideas
* Reach more informed conclusions
* Develop a shared understanding