Again, don't really know where to put this... hope it's OK in this forum.
What exactly is a 'discussion paper'?

I've always understood it to be something intended to invite a debate (i.e. discussion) on a subject. I've never read one, but I imagine they propose various options or raise various issues on a subject which is eventually going to lead to some kind of policy, legislation or administrative procedure.

Alex

This is in the context of a journal about children's literature (this one: www.write4children.org ) so it can't be about policy. I wonder is it a kind of less formal article?

<Added>

maybe you don't have to draw conclusions, but can just invite debate, as you say.

I would guess something to stimulate debate about some aspect of children's literature, such as suitable topics or use of language. Although I used to read a lot as a kid, I don't consider myself to be very knowledgeable about children's literature, so I can't offer any other suggestions as to what writers might want to discuss on the topic.

Not sure either, TBH. I'd suggest something that sets out and clarifies lots of questions in and around the detail of a subject, in the hope of getting the others in the seminar to add their experience/knowledge/opinions.

Maybe also something where you're allowed to be tentative - it seems to me that X, but I don't know about Y, which would make a difference...

Whereas a normal paper is more about method-results-conclusion, and coming to some answers.

You could always email them and ask what they tend to find works best, as a discussion paper.

Emma