11. Panels:

Purpose: To use outside 'experts' to present or demonstrate new materials or ideas.

Description: Panel discussions often involve a facilitated debate and presentation on a given topic, followed by a question and answer period. Variations on this pattern that allow more open interaction between panel members and participants are possible and should be experimented with. Panels of experts can enhance the learning experience of the participants and give them access to active members of the community. It can help participants to establish an information support network outside of the training program.

Process:

a. Objectives of having guest speakers are set.

b. Panel members are selected by trainer and/or participants.

c. Panel is invited to training session (guidelines and information is provided to panel members). d. Participants are encouraged to ask questions or join in discussion.

e. Analysis and evaluation of panel presentation by participants is facilitated by trainer.