What approach is likely to help keep discussions focused on an action plan during a consortium meeting?

Requiring members to present evidence to support their viewpoints is an effective approach to keeping discussions focused during a consortium meeting because it encourages participants to bring concrete data and relevant information to the conversation. This evidence-based discourse helps ground the discussion in facts and real-world applications, which minimizes tangents and speculative arguments. By focusing on verifiable information, participants are more likely to steer the conversation towards actionable items and collaborative decision-making.

In this context, the reliance on evidence limits subjective or emotional arguments and directs the group's attention towards solutions that are supported by research or data, thereby aligning the discussion with the meeting's action plan. This method also encourages critical thinking and accountability among members, as they must substantiate their positions with credible sources.