SPEAKING

What is a Forum?

A forum or panel discussion is a specific format used in a meeting, conference, or convention.

It is a live (or recorded), in-person, virtual, or “hybrid” discussion about a specific topic amongst
a selected group of experts who share differing perspectives in front of an in-person, virtual,
or geographically dispersed audience.

The main purpose of a panel discussion is for the panellists to share their wisdom and provide
insights to create real value and takeaways for the audience. It is an “up close and personal”
discussion amongst the panellists and with the audience.

Characteristics of a Forum

- A panel discussion is typically facilitated by a skilled “panel moderator” who guides the
panel and the audience through a lively conversation about a specific topic.
- The panellists are a group of people typically 3-4 experts or practitioners in the field,
who share facts, offer 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.
- It can be produced to be in front of a live audience or recorded for replay, shown in-
person or remotely, with the moderator and panellists in one location or attending
remotely, and with the audience in one physical room, or “virtually” (otherwise known
as “geographically dispersed”).
Roles of a Panel Moderator

1. Champion for the Audience

Makes sure the panel is talking about timely issues that the audience cares about. Continually
assesses and reacts to the audience, keeping the conversation on track and meaningful for
them.

2. Facilitator
Sets the agenda and ground rules, keeps the discussions on track, brings out differing
opinions and the most interesting information, balances panellist participation, clarifies any
confusion, takes questions from the audience, and intervenes as needed – especially when a
long-winded panellist dominates the conversation.

3. Timekeeper
Makes sure the panel starts and ends on time and follows the time frames on the agenda.
Makes sure they do not spend too much or too little time on any one single element.

4. Logistician
Makes sure the panellists show up on time, the room is set, microphones are working, etc.

5. Instigator
Probes beneath the surface, asking tough questions of the panel, building the dialogue,
keeping the conversation lively, and getting out of the way when the conversation is going
well. Asks specific questions to push the panellists to share details rather than speak in
generalities. Gets the dialogue going with the audience and sustains the conversation in order
to get their questions answered.

6. Content Coordinator
Works with the panellists to make sure their points of view and presentations (if they have
one!) do not overlap. Identifies the areas of debate and controversy. Coordinates slideshows
where appropriate.

7. Energizer
Models energy and enthusiasm. Works the room and intentionally creates opportunities for
audience interaction. Injects a little humour where appropriate to keep it lively.

8. Neutral & Objective

Withholds own personal opinions and judgment. Does not show bias or favouritism toward any
particular side, faction, or person.

Roles of Panellists

1. Serve the Audience

Always keep the audience in mind as you prepare. Figure out what they want to know from
you and then serve it up. Anticipate their questions, and have answers and resources ready.

2. Check-In with the Moderator

Speak to the moderator well beforehand to align your expectations with the moderator’s. Find
out who the other panellists are, why you were chosen, and what role you play. Ask for the
format of the programme along with a working agenda, speaking order, and ground rules.
Finally, ask how best to support each other. At the very least, the moderator will ask for a
short biodata that is interesting and relevant as well as some pithy, provocative questions
about the topic.
3. Be Prepared
Research the other panellist’s positions and determine what makes you/your position unique
from the others. Be ready to introduce yourself succinctly (2-3 sentences is great) and to
share 3-5 key messages that matter. Be ready to support your points with concrete examples
and crisp, concise stories that humanize your message and drive it home.

4. Be Timely
Show up on time – even a little bit early. Then, if you are given 5 minutes to present, a minute
to share, a sentence to recap, stick to your time limits. It is all about respecting the audience
and following the prescribed process.

5. Follow the Moderator’s Lead

Speak when invited and give signals to the moderator when you would like to contribute to the
discussion.

6. Be Honest
As you share your ideas, be honest about your struggles, what worked as well as what didn’t.
Be open and honest, and a little humble too.

7. Use the Microphone

If there is only one microphone for all the panellists, make sure you have ready access to it.
Lift it close to your mouth and speak confidently into it while looking at the audience.

8. Tag On
Make it a conversation rather than a ping pong match between the moderator and individual
panellists by making explicit links or references to what other panellists have said. Add to or
disagree with their contributions by saying “Let me add something to that idea…” or “We take
a different approach at our company…” Be additive and not repetitive to the discussion – and
do not feel compelled to answer every question – especially when another panellist has given
a perfectly fine answer.

9. Disagree Diplomatically
At some point, you will disagree with the other panellists (otherwise, why have a panel
discussion?). One of the panellists will say something that is not consistent with your own
view or perspective. Respectfully disagree without being disagreeable. Rather than saying
“Jane, that’s stupid,” respond by saying something like “Jane, I understand how your research
could lead to infer this; however, my fieldwork indicates otherwise.”

10. Enjoy Yourself

If you are having fun, the audience will too. It will be okay; your audience wants you to
succeed, so show your passion and enthusiasm for the topic. So just relax and enjoy the
discussion.

11. Make Friends

You have the opportunity to create great relationships with your fellow panellists, moderator,
and audience members. Particularly if you were articulate and made relevant points, it is a
great way to connect with other high-profile experts. Do not hesitate to follow up with an email
and continue the conversation!
Structured Panel Discussion Formats

The following are some popular panel discussion formats:

Mainstage Style A hard-hitting, short-duration panel discussion with panel

members, typically the keynoter, main stage presenters, or
invited panellists. There is no audience question and answer
session (Q&A).

Q&A Style A short introduction of the topic and panellists with moderator-
curated questions, followed by audience Q&A.

Initial Remarks Style A short introduction of the topic with each panellist taking time
to introduce themselves and their perspectives on the topic.
Then moderator-curated questions followed by audience Q&A.

Presentation Style A short introduction of the topic and panellists with each
panellist presenting their perspectives on the topic, followed by
audience Q&A.

Talk Show The easiest format to mimic is the TV talk show (daytime and
late night!). It has a host/moderator and guests/panelists who
have interesting conversations! Think Oprah, The View, David
Letterman.

Debate When there are two or more distinct or polarized viewpoints,

(political or otherwise), it is considered as a classic debate
format.

How Do I Start?

Conducting a forum session has to be carefully planned. It is always recommended to have a

moderator who will greet and introduce the panel for the session.

1) The moderator should introduce himself/herself and thank the audience for joining the
online session.
2) To clearly state the topic of presentation and brief the flow of the discussion.
3) To explain the role of panellists and the issues that would be covered in the session.

Example of an Introduction
Welcome, everyone! Thank you for joining us for today's forum. My name is [HOST
NAME] and I'm the moderator for the today’s session.

Today we are discussing "[TITLE]" with the panellists [INTRODUCE THE

PANELLISTS]. Just a little housekeeping before we get started. If you have any
questions, we will have time for Q&A at the end of the session.

Now without further ado, we will turn the time over to our first panellist! Our presenter
today is [details/bio of PRESENTER to highlight credibility and expertise on subject
matter].
A Forum Structure

Discussion Wrap Up
•Introduce the title •Anwer the questions
and the panellists •The presentation asked by the audience •Thank everyone for
of the panellists and other speakers joining in and summarise
the ideas discussed
Question &
Introduction
Answer

Engaging in an online communication can be exhausting, and the last thing you want to do is
bore your audience.

The webinar should be conceptualised to ensure the audience are engaged and enjoy the
session throughout.

Here are some tips to host an ideal webinar:

• Understand the motivation of webinar

• The target audience (likes/dislikes)
• The goal of the webinar by doing a quick survey
• Interactive audience poll
• The content has to be amazing and creative
• Q & A session

BUILDING ARGUMENTS SYSTEMATICALLY

In order to engage in an effective discussion, one should emphasise on these criteria:

o Ensure the meaning of the idea is conveyed clearly

o Apply suitable and varied choice of vocabulary
o Organise the ideas according to the themes
o Link ideas constructively using appropriate sequencing
o Speak fluently using accurate grammar
o Pronounce words precisely
o Apply correct form of stress and intonation while speaking
Sample A (Public Speaking)

Advantages and Disadvantages of bringing Handphones to School

Assalamualaikum and a very good morning to the honourable judges, Introduction:

teachers, parents and my fellow friends. Today, on this fine day, I would Thesis
like to present a public speech about ‘the advantages and statement
disadvantages of bringing handphone to school. It is a highly debated
issue in this era. Thus, let’s look at the advantages and disadvantages of
allowing handphones in school.
Ladies and gentlemen,
Handphones, mobile phones, and tablets are becoming common in almost
everywhere in our society, even now, small children have it too. Today, it has
become a must-have item for everyone. But then, is it a good idea to allow
students to bring handphone to school? In every story, there are two sides
of contrasting ideas, therefore, I would like to take this opportunity, to let the
audience know the advantages and disadvantages of allowing students to
bring handphone to school.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Let me start my speech by stating the first advantage of students bringing First
handphone to school that is, to make communication easier, especially argument
between parents and their children. It will allow them to communicate with
each other at any time. In the past, parents often never knew where their
children were until they came home. With handphone, parents can check up
on their kids and arrange transportation or relay important information if
necessary, at any time they want. For example, the children can tell their
parents about their activities and thus make the parents less worried about
their children’s whereabouts.

Secondly handphones can be an invaluable tool in emergency situations. Second

For instance, if a student is severely injured or there is a crisis, the argument
handphone can allow students to contact the relevant authorities or family
members or anyone for help. Students can keep family members updated
on the situation as well. Handphones can also help emergency responders
by allowing them to send directions to the students.

Thirdly, with the technology available, it can help the students to learn more. Third
Students are confident that with their handphone, they will not be stranded argument
and will be able to find anything they want to find, right at the time they need
it. Whether it is general information on the internet or information related to
their course, the handphone helps students achieve it faster.

Now, I will focus on the disadvantages of student bringing handphone to Counter-

school. Firstly, it is about theft issue. With more and more attractive and argument 1
sophisticated handphones available, there are good chances of handphones
being snatched or stolen. This happen because some students might not be
able to afford buying a handphone, thus, the only way for them to have it, is
by stealing it. Students can make extra money too by stealing the
handphone and selling it.

Secondly, the phone can cause distraction in lessons. Some students who Counter-
do not silent or tune off their handphone will disturb the lesson in the class argument 2
when it rings. They also play games during the lesson quietly. With so many
students in the class, the teacher could overlook these students. This is one
of the instances of students misusing the purpose of handphone.

By bringing handphone to school also will hinder students to study more as

they are inclined to play games than to read book. They will only use the Counter-
privilege given to them for their own joy only. Thus, the passion for learning argument 3
for many students will be decreased and this is alarming because education
is important in life.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

I have lined out the pros and cons of allowing students to bring handphone
to school. Now, it is up to us to decide and choose the best decision on this Conclusion
issue. With that, I would like to thank all of you for lending me your ears.

Adapted from: http://cikgu-masz.blogspot.com

Useful Expression in Organising Arguments

Greetings
A very good day I bid to all of you.
Good morning everyone.
Stating the viewpoints
In my point of view…
In my opinion…
It is my view that…
Based on my experience, my take is that…
I think…
I must say…
From my point of view…
As far as I am concerned…
To introduce the first argument
First of all, I would like to state…
For a start, I would like to suggest…
I would like to begin by…
I would like to provide two reasons for my point which is…
To emphasize the main argument
My main point is…
It is important to…
One of the important reason is…
The most crucial factor is…
 To explain an argument
Therefore…
This means that…
On top of that…
According to…
In relation to that…
To specify example
For example…
For instance…
Take for example...
Such as…
To provide a second argument
Secondly,
My next reason is…
Another idea…
Next, I would like to highlight…
Another idea that I would like to highlight…
Another point that I would like to emphasise is...
Moving on to my next argument, which is…
In addition to the argument…
Furthermore…
Moreover…
To emphasise an issue
As I have mentioned earlier…
I have pointed out earlier that…
As I said at the beginning…
Based on my previous idea…
To talk about cause and effect
This … in turn can lead…
For this reason…
As a result…
Due to the above issue…
As a consequence…
To conclude
In conclusion…
In short…
To wrap up...
In a nutshell…
In short, the ideas I have discussed in this session are…
To end the discussion
Is there anything else that you would like to say, otherwise we shall end this discussion
here.
If you have nothing more to add, we shall stop here.
It has been an interesting discussion. Since we have come to an agreement, I guess it is
time to end our session.
Let’s bring this discussion to a close.
Thank you for your contributions to this discussion.
Thank you for a fruitful and interesting discussion.
Thank you very much for your attention and participation.
Task 1.1

Vaccination stamp will be required to travel in the future

With the recent outbreak of Covid-19 pandemic, many countries have come forward to include
Covid-19 vaccine as a requirement in the travel checklist. In pairs, discuss some of the
reasons and organise them in the template provided.

Introduction
Thesis Statement

Body
First Argument
Facts/Examples

Second Argument
Facts/Examples

Third Argument
Facts/Examples

Conclusion
Review of arguments
Closing
Building an Argument

In a discussion, it is important to justify our stand and provide explanation to support our
argument. While preparing an argument, you may look at these techniques in building a strong
argument:

Thesis Evidence

Concluding
Refutation
statement

1) Thesis

This is usually included in your introduction as you clarify your position on the issue. You
should also establish credibility and build a common ground in the discussion.

2) Evidence

While you are presenting, you need to provide solid arguments with established proof.
Therefore, you need to understand your topic well before presenting.

Conduct research, consider all sides of the arguments and be well-informed about the topic
prior to the presentation.

3) Refutation

Refutation allows the discussion to be enriching as they are counter-opposing arguments.

Thus, you need to demonstrate that you are an unbiased and fair-minded speaker.

4) Concluding Statement

Reaching the end of your discussion, you should be able to reiterate your thesis statement
and bring your argument back to your main points.
Task 1.2: Pitch Your Way!

Recently, during the pandemic many businesses have faced adverse impacts and these
included our homegrown products as well. Thus, there was a call by the Malaysia government
to encourage the sales and purchase of local products.

Based on the topic “Why we need to support local businesses”, deliver a 3-minute online public
speech pitching your idea on the topic.

Stating and justifying points of view

• Expressing opinion and reaction

Knowing how to express your opinion is valuable when you are speaking either when
presenting a speech or participating in a webinar.

Many phrases are suitable in everyday speech and some kind of presentation whether as a
social media influencer or a YouTuber.

Common phrases include:

I think…
I believe…
I feel…
In my opinion… and…
I would say…

For example, you have your own YouTube channel on how to prepare local cuisines. If
you are talking about the world’s best street food. You might say:

In my opinion, Penang has the best street food in Malaysia.

 Adding strength to the opinion stated
You can make your statement stronger by adding an adverb or adjective. For example:

I really think…
I strongly believe…
I truly feel… or
In my honest opinion…

In addition, giving reasons for your opinion adds strength to the claim. Let’s hear the street
food statement again:

In my honest opinion, Penang has the best street food in Malaysia. I have never seen
more choices of what to eat and everything I’ve tried have been scrumptious!

Formal phrases

Formal situations can include attending a business meeting, conference or presenting a

paper. Examples of formal phrases are:

From my point of view…

From my perspective…
In my view… or
It seems to me that…

Example:

In my view, river cruise should be banned in Malacca. The boats produce high amounts of
waste and use the dirtiest fuel in the world.

Task 1.3 Work with a partner, take turns to express your opinions in the following issues:

- Covid-19 Pandemic: Impacts on Students

- Child marriage
- The life of a social media influencer

• Supporting claim with appropriate reasoning

When presenting opinions, the strategies a speaker can use to provide supporting evidence
for the speech’s central idea and specific purpose are called support.

There are three primary reasons to use support: to clarify content, to increase speaker
credibility, and to make the speech more vivid.

A good piece of support should be accurate, authoritative, current, and unbiased.

When speaking to present your opinion supported with appropriate reasoning, you may
include some visuals such as fact sheets, charts, statistics, videos, and pictorial representation
of processes. Visuals help the speaker to communicate better with the audience as they
understand the information easily.

Task 1.4 You are currently preparing a speech titled ‘How to study smart’ to be delivered to
your course mates. What types of support are you using? Could you enhance the credibility
of your speech by using other types of support? If so, what types of support do you think you
are lacking? Prepare the outline of your speech. Highlight the support you use.

Task 1.5 Find and analyse an online news article or letter to the editor that takes a position
on an issue such as environment, crime or education. Which types of support does the writer
use? How effective and convincing do you think the use of support is? Why?

Task 1.6 Based on the article analysed in Task 1.5, prepare a speech of about 2 minutes to
present your point of view on the issue highlighted in the online news article or letter to the
editor. You may use visuals to support your opinion or point of view.

Task 1.7 Voice out!

You are attending an Earth Day: Fight against the Haze! Campaign organised by the Nature
Club in your university. You are assigned to groups consisting of four (4) members. In your
group, conduct a webinar to voice out how to combat the haze that have damaged our health
and livelihood. Provide relevant and valid support to make your opinion/view/claim effective
and convincing to the audience.

References

https://www.powerfulpanels.com/definition-panel-discussion/

https://www.throughlinegroup.com/2017/09/18/how-to-plan-a-great-panel-discussion/