How to Moderate a Panel Discussion: Definition of a Panel (Video #1)

Welcome to the first video in the 7-part video e-course on Powerful Panels: How to Moderate a Lively and Informative Panel Discussion with professional panel moderator Kristin Arnold. This first video focuses on what a panel is...and is not. A panel discussion is a specific format used in a meeting, conference or convention. It is a live or virtual discussion about a specific topic amongst a selected group of panelists who share differing perspectives in front of a larger audience. The panel is typically facilitated by a "moderator" who guides the panel and the audience through the event. The panel, typically 3-4 experts or practitioners in the field, shares facts, offers opinions and responds to audience questions either through questions curated by the moderator or taken from the audience directly. The panel session typically lasts for 60-90 minutes. A panel discussion is NOT: A set of presentations, one after another. A one-on-one interview with each panelist. Just Q&A from the audience. A roundtable discussion. Not that any of these formats are bad; they are different than and an alternative to a panel discussion. Just call it like you see it, be it a panel, presentation, interview or forum. Use a panel when you believe the group of panelists will generate something more interesting than any one individual panel member could generate on his/her own. You can find out more about how to moderate a lively and informative panel discussion at www.PowerfulPanels.com