round table discussion

1. Round table
discussion
talent-a.livejournal.com

2. Why appropriate
• Unique opportunity for learning and professional exchange
• Good for networking and in-depth discussion on a particular topic
• Look at an issue from different points of view
• Excellent venues for getting targeted feedback, engaging in in-depth
discussions, and meeting colleagues with similar interests
• Built upon the idea that every member has something to contribute,
and that every member has something to learn
• Personified opinion and polyphonic setting
• Intended to lead to action and change

3. Basic requirements
1. unresolved question;
2. equal participation of all stakeholders;
3. to develop appropriate solutions for all participants on the subject
under discussion.

4. Preparation:
• Select a topic
• Distribute roles (moderator, note-taker, time-keeper, etc).
• Agree on agenda: set time-limits, prepare a list of up to 15 sub-questions
• Prepare a list of resources for reading before the round table, to keep
vocabulary range and to ensure high level of topic awareness
• Ensure technical equipment and proper setting

5. Visual aids
Round tables often do not have traditional audio-visual aids available,
but roundtable presenters might bring handouts illustrating their work:
• a) key lessons to be learned,
• b) a list of resources (web links, books, people) to learn more,
• c) contacts to encourage follow-up.

6. Moderator/facilitator role
• Set expectations
• Move the group toward consensus on agenda items to be discussed
• Engage all group members in the discussion
• Guide discussion: Challenge thinking, share ideas, restate ideas
• Summarize and conclude discussion

7. Participants role
• Be ready to discuss an issue (topic), aiming for solutions.
• Have certain opinion, knowledge and experience relevant for the
topic.
• Participate effectively:
 Stay focused, be active listener
Actively engage in discussion, build links between sub-questions
 Feel free to share an illustration
 Request an example if a point is not clear
 Be skeptical – don’t buy everything you hear

8. Flow examples for 60 minutes round table
Introduction
Questions by
questions
Conclusion
10 min
40 min 10 min
Key speech Discussion Closing
Pitch &
Discussion
Pitch &
Discussion
Pitch &
Discussion
Outcome
20 min
5 min &
10 min
5 min &
10 min
5 min &
10 min
15 min
35 min 5 min

9. Flow offer for a round table on Monday
1. Introduction – 5 minutes
2. Discussion – 70 minutes
3. Follow up – 5 minutes
Break
1. Working in groups on the output presentation – 40 minutes
2. Output presentation – 15 minutes for each group