"To frame the discussion" means to outline or establish the context or perspective within which a conversation or debate will take place. It involves setting the boundaries, focus, or main points that will guide the conversation. Full definition
I happen to be in a position to take advantage of the current promotion fairly aggressively, but it should be obvious that I'm trying to frame this discussion in more general terms. (freequentflyerbook.com)
It's really not either / or and we shouldn't be framing the discussion as if it were. (dearauthor.com)
If students signed a team contract at the start of the project, use this document to frame discussions about accountability. (edutopia.org)