Personal and Business Competencies / Personal Skills

Panel Discussions and Debates — Moderation

A practical training in moderating panel discussions and running debates — selecting panelists, building the structure of the conversation, the technique of asking questions and synthesizing threads, engaging the audience, and the rules and formats of debate (including Oxford). The programme is based on live exercises — participants moderate panels and run debates, receiving feedback.

A well-run panel discussion and a skilfully moderated debate can be the strongest point of an event — they bring different perspectives together, engage the audience and organize knowledge in real time.

Panel Discussions and Debates — Moderation is a two-day practical EITT training, delivered onsite or remotely. The programme is intended for people who moderate or will moderate panels and discussions — it combines the technique of running a conversation with the rules and formats of debate.

The training programme covers the key areas:

Panel discussion — preparation and structure
Moderation technique
Debates — formats and running them
Working with the audience and practical exercises

After completing the training, participants will be able to design and run a panel discussion, ask sharp questions and synthesize threads, run debates according to recognized formats and engage the audience in the conversation. Particular emphasis is placed on practical exercises — participants moderate panels and run debates live and then analyze them based on recordings and feedback.

The training also teaches how to keep a dispute at the level of arguments, defuse tension and maintain a balance of voices — skills valuable not only on stage but also in the everyday work of a manager, leader or communication specialist.

Benefits

Participants will learn to design and moderate a panel discussion — from selecting panelists, through the structure of the conversation, to the audience Q&A
The training will develop the technique of asking sharp questions, following up and synthesizing threads in real time
The workshop will help master managing the dynamics of a group of panelists and keeping the voices balanced
Participants will learn the formats and rules of debate (including Oxford) and the role of the chair
The training will practise techniques for engaging the audience and running Q&A sessions
Participants will learn to defuse tension and keep a dispute at the level of arguments, not people

Prerequisites

Basic ease in public speaking or experience in running meetings
Readiness for live practical exercises with recording and feedback
Openness to working on questioning technique and conversation management

Training program

Panel vs debate — differences, goals and when to use each format
Selecting panelists and the preparatory call
Panel structure — opening, position round, discussion, Q&A, wrap-up
The moderator's role and keeping the voices balanced

Asking sharp questions and following up
Synthesizing threads and steering the conversation to specifics
Managing time and the dynamics of panelists
Active listening and responding to what is actually said

Debate formats (Oxford, Lincoln-Douglas, business decision format)
Building an argument and rebuttal technique
The chair's role and judging criteria
Keeping a dispute at the level of arguments, not people

Techniques for engaging the audience and running Q&A
Defusing tension and difficult situations
Moderating panels and debates live with recording
Feedback and building an individual style

Delivery Methods

Online

Convenience of participating from anywhere
Interactive live sessions with trainer
Materials available for 30 days
No travel costs

On-site

Direct contact with trainer and group
Intensive hands-on workshops
Networking with other participants
Full focus on learning

Frequently asked questions

Who is the Panel Discussions and Debates — Moderation training for?

The training is aimed at people who moderate or will moderate panels and discussions at conferences, industry meetings and company events — managers, leaders, PR, communication and HR specialists. Required level: intermediate.

How long is the Panel Discussions and Debates — Moderation training?

The training lasts 2 days. Delivered online or onsite, with an emphasis on practical exercises and feedback.

Will I receive a certificate after the training?

Yes — every participant receives a certificate of completion confirming the competencies acquired. EITT holds ISO 9001 accreditation.

Can the training be delivered for a closed group?

Yes — we offer dedicated in-house trainings for companies. We adapt the programme to your team's needs and the nature of your events. Contact us for an individual quote.