Panel Discussion

In a panel discussion, a group of three to five learners, appointed as panellists, examines, and discusses a problem or topic to reach a compromise or consolidation of different opinions and perspectives about the topic.

The panel members conduct their discussion in front of the whole group. The panel discussion has a moderator who introduces the topic. In the first round, the moderator invites each panel member to first present his/her views. In the second round, he/ she invites each member to discuss or comment on the views presented in the first round. At the end, the moderator summarizes the different key aspects of the topic.

Before the panel discussion, engage the whole group in a preliminary discussion about the topic.

1. Introduce a problem on which different and conflicting opinions exist or are possible.
2. Have learners work in groups to enumerate as many aspects and different opinions on the topic as possible.
3. Each group sends a member into the panel discussion group. One of them is chosen to be the moderator.

1. The central problem must be clear to the panel members.
2. One of the panel members must be a moderator who seeks views or opinions from panellists.
3. Select panellists appropriately, based on the problem to be discussed.
4. Panellists must be thoroughly briefed as regards their roles and possible opinions.
5. If you follow the strict procedure of a debate, the consensus reached by panellists must be respected, while in a discussion or learning situation it may remain open.
6. The teacher should ensure that the audience or rest of the learners are aware of the main conclusion at the end.

As the groups are looking at one problem from different perspectives (different roles and interests) all members learn to identify conflicting interests and learn how to look for solutions and reach a consensus on the topic addressed.