PANEL DISCUSSION/A STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE

Summary

The transcript outlines the dynamics of a successful panel discussion, emphasizing the role of a skilled moderator and the selection of knowledgeable panelists. It highlights the importance of a clear thesis, effective communication strategies such as topic nomination, restriction, turn-taking, and shifting, and the need for repair to address communication barriers. The goal is to maintain an engaging and focused discussion that is accessible and informative to the audience.

Takeaways

• 🗣️ A panel discussion is a public exchange of ideas where experts and audience can discuss a specific topic.
• 🎭 It should appear effortless to the audience but requires careful planning and organization.
• 👤 Select a moderator who understands the topic and can manage social dynamics effectively.
• 👥 Invite 4-5 panelists to create an interesting discussion with varied fields of expertise.
• 📜 Ensure panelists are authoritative and know the goal or thesis of the panel discussion.
• 📅 Provide ample time for preparation to all participants to ensure they are well-prepared.
• 🗣️ Communicative strategies are crucial, including nomination, restriction, turn-taking, topic control, and topic shifting.
• 🚦 Nomination introduces the topic for conversation, including verbal and nonverbal cues.
• 🚧 Restriction sets the scope and limitations of the discussion through a clear goal or thesis statement.
• 🔄 Turn-taking organizes conversation so participants speak one at a time, avoiding overlaps and minimizing silence.
• 🔄 Topic control and shifting manage the flow of conversation, ensuring it stays on track and can move to related topics.
• 🛠️ Repair involves recognizing and addressing communication breakdowns or barriers.
• ⏹ Termination uses verbal and nonverbal communication to end the discussion effectively.

Q & A

What is the primary purpose of a panel discussion?

A panel discussion is a public exchange of ideas that allows experts and the audience to discuss a particular topic, often delving into politics, community issues, or academic subjects.

What qualities should a good moderator possess for a panel discussion?

A good moderator should understand the topic well enough to follow the discussion and be skilled in social situations to keep the panelists focused and the discussion running smoothly.

How many panelists are typically included in a panel discussion?

A panel of four to five people usually creates the most interesting discussion.

Why is it important to have panelists from varied fields of disciplines or professions?

Having panelists from varied fields allows for substantial discussion and a broader range of perspectives on the topic at hand.

What should a member of a panel be an authority on?

A panel member should be an authority on the topic being discussed, ensuring they can contribute meaningfully to the conversation.

Why is it important for panelists to know the goal or thesis of the panel?

Knowing the goal or thesis in advance allows panelists to prepare adequately and ensures that the discussion remains focused and relevant.

What is the first communicative strategy mentioned in the script for a panel discussion?

The first communicative strategy is nomination, which involves introducing the topic to the speakers or panelists for conversation.

What does the strategy of 'restriction' involve in a panel discussion?

Restriction involves setting the scope and limitations of the discussion by presenting the goal or thesis statement of the panel.

How is 'turn taking' managed in a panel discussion?

Turn taking is managed by having participants speak one at a time and alternating turns, responding to previous comments, and transitioning to a different speaker while avoiding overlapping talk.

What does 'topic control' involve in the context of a panel discussion?

Topic control involves asking questions that move the conversation forward and sticking to the set parameters to ensure the discussion stays on track.

How can a moderator address communication breakdowns or barriers during a panel discussion?

A moderator can address communication breakdowns by using phrases to bring panelists back on track or politely interrupting to move the discussion along if someone is taking up too much time.

What is the final strategy for ending a panel discussion?

The final strategy for ending a panel discussion is termination, which involves using verbal and nonverbal communication to bring the discussion to a close.