It's a good feeling to see students helping each other!
What people sometimes don't realize is that journalism is a communal effort, with people contributing to the stew and letting it cook, if you don't mind that comparison, and then talking some out when they need to. Me, the teacher, is
part of that contributing and using process.
Students who ask for help getting started with a story, for example, will get a temporary lead to get them started. They'll also hear this: "You're welcome to make any changes you need to make."
If it's their first time to hear this, you'll see a nervous reaction in their face. Then I'll explain what I described above, that journalism is a communal effort, with people giving ideas when they can help out, and also asking for ideas when they need help. I also urge students to change whatever I suggested as the story
develops because what may be relevant at one point may not work with a later revision.
So, I don't mind discussing a topic with a student or a group of students, and also don't mind a group of students discussing a topic amongst themselves. A waste of time? No. Think about it: students are practicing communication skills, questioning, proposing, defending, criticizing (hopefully with tact), and all the while thinking.
Students who are respected for their leadership skills will stand out and are looked up by others as a source of help.
It's a good feeling to see that happen.