This document provides guidance on conducting effective round table discussions. It outlines that round tables are useful for learning, networking, and gaining different perspectives on a topic through in-depth discussion. Preparation includes selecting a topic, assigning roles, setting an agenda with time limits and sub-questions, and ensuring participants are well-informed. The moderator guides the discussion to engage participants, challenge ideas, and summarize conclusions. Participants should actively engage by sharing opinions and building on others' ideas to work toward appropriate solutions for all. Examples of 60 and 90 minute round table agendas are also provided.

1. Round table
discussion
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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