Discussion Techniques

This week we discussed the article “Dumpster Diving” in a different way than we had previously discussed articles. We discussed this using small groups writing responses to a number of questions. As we answered the first few questions, this task was relatively easy. All we had to do was write our thoughts and responses to the question. Then, we were challenged to not repeat any of the ideas that were written down from previous groups. This proved to be a very difficult task, as we were required to think of new, original responses that might not have been obvious when first reading the question. This hunt for new, original thought was mentally a struggle, and as we continued to read responses, I realized the similarities between ideas. Many of the questions had responses that were based off the same idea and convey similar messages.

This made me think of the ideas my peers have. Even with the diversity in a school such as Troy High, the social influences cause many ideas to remain very similar. Is it true then that the social influences are more prominent in a person’s thinking than their ethnic influences? Is it true that the ethnic ideas that are present when one grows up are not as influential as the social ideas that are present almost everyday? These are difficult questions to answer, and may differ from person to person. I believe that the influences someone experiences everyday greatly impacts how they think and what ideas they have. The people and places someone encounters everyday changes their ideas, for better or worse. This then emphasizes the importance of surrounding yourself with positive influences and positive ideas.