The aim is for everyone to share what they have found out individually on the subject, and precise references are more useful than vague memories. Bring the points you had jotted down as especially difficult or interesting into the discussion. They can be used to contribute to the discussion and give your tutor some guidance to problems you might be having with the course. Discussion sessions are very demanding. It is difficult to keep track of the conversation, to join in and to take notes all at the same time.
Some students bring a tape recorder provided no-one objects or feels inhibited by it.
Perhaps the best way is to ask the tutor to plan a five-minute summing up at the end of each session. Alternatively, members can take it in turns to act as reporters for a session and list the main points on the board for everyone at the end. Successful discussions are those where everyone takes responsibility for making progress. Group discussion is demanding and needs to be reflected on for the main points to stick. If your tutor or the group did not produce a summary, write your own brief summary of the main points.