How does it work? Format description
A panel discussion is an actively moderated discussion ideally between 3-4 people, where each panellist can speak and express their opinion, either answering the moderator’s question or reacting to a fellow panellist’s speech. The more panellists there are, the less they are able to speak and share ideas, which reduces the depth and activity of the discussion with each subsequent panellist added. A good panel discussion is lively, but clear, and requires preparation from the moderator, communication with panellists and consideration of the audience.
What is the role of the moderator?
The moderator’s role in a panel discussion is to develop and lead a meaningful and active conversation, ensuring that the discussion is on topic, progresses the topic and is consistent with the purpose of the discussion. The moderator is responsible for ensuring that all participants have equal time to speak and that the audience has the opportunity to ask questions. The requirements for a good moderator of a panel discussion include:
- Preparation: The moderator should be thoroughly prepared, know the topic, the purpose of the discussion and the background and perspectives of the discussion participants.
- Objectivity: The moderator should be neutral and impartial, avoiding personal opinions and biases.
- Flexibility: The moderator should be flexible and able to adjust the discussion if necessary, ensuring that it stays within the frameworks necessary for the purpose of the discussion and addresses important and relevant questions for the topic.
- Effective time management: The moderator should effectively manage the time spent on the discussion, ensuring that each participant has equal time to speak and that the discussion remains within the allotted time.
Number and profile of participants in the discussion?
The number or type of participants is not limited.
Preliminary and follow-up work: what larger process is a discussion built in this way suitable for?
For a successful and impactful panel discussion, the discussion organiser and moderator must prepare it in a meaningful and thorough way, considering, among other things, the following questions. By following these tips, you can successfully plan and effectively moderate a panel discussion, providing a platform for a productive and engaging exchange of ideas and perspectives.
- What is the purpose of the discussion? Clearly define the purpose of the panel discussion and ensure that all participants and listeners understand what is being discussed and what results are expected.
- What is the discussion design? Decide on the format and structure of the discussion. Will each participant give an opening speech? Will you leave time for questions and answers to the audience? Ensure that the structure is clear and helps to achieve the purpose of the discussion.
- Who are the participants in the discussion? Invite participants who bring different perspectives and have relevant expertise. Ensure that participants are knowledgeable and willing to discuss the topic at hand.
- What are the questions for the panellists? Prepare questions to guide the discussion and ensure that all important points are covered. Encourage participants to discuss and ask questions to each other.
- How do you involve the audience in the panel discussion? Think about how you want to involve the audience to keep their activity and interest in the discussion consistently high. Do you want to use sli.do or menti.com platforms? Do you want to offer a free microphone so that listeners can ask questions or express opinions?
- How do you keep the discussion on time? Make sure that the discussion runs correctly and within the allotted time. Ensure that each participant has equal time to speak and that listeners can ask questions.
- How do you develop a substantive discussion? Encourage lively and respectful dialogue. Ensure that all participants have a voice and that the discussion focuses on the topic. Intervene if necessary to keep the discussion on track and stop behaviour that disrupts the discussion (e.g. interrupting another person’s speech or digressing from the topic).
- How do you end the discussion? Summarise the main points of the discussion and encourage listeners to continue the conversation among themselves. Thank the participants for their participation and the audience for their attendance.
If you feel you need advice on choosing or applying a discussion format, please contact your discussion area coordinator.