Ach, what the hell, I'll have a go:

It depends what you're used to. I grew up being dragged round sessions and fleadhs in Ireland, and the "way" that I was used to was: lots of tunes, sometimes people sing, and if they do sing, it's unaccompanied, everyone shuts up and listens (if they're good), no one joins in anything (chorus included) and then it's back to a few more tunes.

Having lived in England for a couple of years, and met English singers and been to Mudcat gatherings, I've learnt a new way: the song circle. This was *totally* new to me, as was people joining in (chorus AND verse) and instrumental accompaniment on song. I had never before encountered the idea of people taking a turn (literally, round in a circle) either, nor had I ever encountered song books being used.

Conclusions: personally I like tunes better, but that's because I'm a frustrated fiddler (fnar fnar). It doesn't mean I don't like listening to great singers and great songs. I like Irish sessions (tunes and style), because that's what I'm used to. Horses for courses, and all that - whatever wheels yer turf. But if there's any problems, break out the separate sessions. Then no one suffers, apart from those multi-talented bollixes that can play an instrument, sing a song, remember the words and tap their feet all at the same time. Bastards.