Dialogic Learning is about learning through dialogue. I want to share an essential distinction between dialogue and discussion. This is a crucial lesson I reflect on every day.
Here is David Bohm explaining the subtle difference.
Defining Dialogue
“Dialogue” comes from the Greek word dialogos. Logos means “the word,” or in our case we would think of the “meaning of the word.” And dia means “through” — it doesn’t mean “two.” The picture or image that this derivation suggests is of a stream of meaning flowing among and through us and between us. This will make possible a flow of meaning in the whole group, out of which may emerge some new understanding. It’s something new, which may not have been in the starting point at all. It’s something creative.
David Bohm
Contrast this with the word “discussion,” which has the same root as “percussion” and “concussion.” It really means to break things up. It emphasizes the idea of analysis, where there may be many points of view, and where everybody is presenting a different one — analyzing and breaking up. That obviously has its value, but it is limited, and it will not get us very far beyond our various points of view.
To sum it up, dialogue creates a new understanding, whereas discussion is analysing different points of view.
An Education Example
I remember a rare moment with a group of teachers I worked with – we had been involved in a rich dialogue/discussion. I explained the difference between the types of talk, and we reflected on the conversation we had just experienced. It was enlightening to consider how long we spent in each.
Talking in groups is messy. It rarely, if ever, fits neatly into one category. Facilitation helps with having clear intentions before starting a meeting or session.
Meeting Protocols
Use these questions to consider framing your session, workshop or meeting.
- What type of thinking is needed during our time together?
- Will we be generating new ideas today?
- What disposition will be most helpful for this work?
- What do I need to do to be present and prepared for this meeting?
- How will my mindset help?
- What are the conditions and protocols we need to pay attention to make the most of our group meeting?
Conclusion
Most of the teacher or leader sessions I am involved in require the group to move nimbly between different types of talk, discussion and dialogue.
By having a strong understanding of the different types of talk, we can create the right conditions for a successful experience.
Have you experienced this distinction? How might you use this new understanding of your developmental work? What other questions do you have that are worth considering?
Photo by Priscilla Du Preez