Pilot A Panel, Discussion Leader - Part 6

Moderating The Discussion

The day has arrived. There is a large expectant audience. Much is at stake depending on the information to be considered. You seat the panel members at the front of the audience or head of the table with their name cards, large white tent cards with names printed in bold, easily seen by the audience. You begin the meeting by making a brief statement that explains what the session is about. You state the problem for discussion, and then explain how the meeting will proceed:
· Introduction of each panelist and his or her topic for presentation. In handling the introduction of another speaker, remember your purpose is to highlight that individual. You accomplish this by explaining who the speaker is and why he or she is addressing the subject to that audience. Follow the formula of why this speaker? Why this subject? Why this audience? Why this time? Each panelist is introduced prior to speaking and is allowed a specific time limit. It is your responsibility to signal the speaker when time is up.
· After the panelists have spoken, you present a summary of the points discussed and conclusions.
· Conduct a question / answer session. Open the panel to questions from the audience. You can prompt and guide the audience by stating that the first panelist will now answer questions of concern to his or her presentation and field of authority. Warn the panelist of the time limit for response and repeat the question so it is audible to everyone. After the questions and responses are completed for the first panelist, follow this same pattern for the others.
A second way to open the panel to questions is to invite the audience by asking them, "Is there any information you've just heard that you would like further clarified by a member of the panel?" Or, "The panel is now open to questions. Any member of the audience wishing to address the panel, please raise your hand to be recognized. I will call upon you individually and direct your question to the appropriate panel member."

Remember to repeat the question for the benefit of both the panelists and the audience. Allow only two or three minutes for any one panelist to respond to a particular question.
· Close the session thanking the panel members and the audience for their contributions.