SYMPOSIUM

INTRODUCTION
Symposium is a form of discussion in which different viewpoints regarding the single
concept or component of a topic is discussed under guidance of a chairperson
Most preferred method to discuss controversial issues.
MEANING
First Plato has used this term for good dialogue to present the views towards God
Recent meaning of the term is a meeting of persons to discuss a problem or theme
DEFINITION
The symposium is a method of group discussion in which two or more persons under the
direction of chairman present separate speeches which gives several aspects of one question.
OBJECTIVES

To identify and understand various aspects of theme.

To develop the ability to make decision and judgement regarding a problem.
To develop the values and feeling regarding a problem.
To enable the listeners to form policies regarding a theme or problem

PURPOSE OF SYMPOSIUM

To investigate a problem from several point of view

To boost students ability to speak in group

CHARACTERISTICS OF THE SYMPOSIUM TECHNIQUE

It provides a broad understanding of a topic or a problem

The opportunity is provided for the listeners to take decision about the problem
It is used for higher classes to specific theme

PERSONNEL INOLVED IN SYMPOSIUM

Organisers
Chairperson
Experts
participants
Their roles

Organisers:

Decide topic
Formulate objectives
search for suitable chairperson and experts
Fix the date and time

CHAIRMAN:

Guide the speaker towards goal

Control the group

Maintain a non-judgemental attitude
Summarize and give conclusion

SPEAKER:

Preparation of the topic

Presentation of the topic
Answering questions raised by the audience

AUDIENCE:

Listen over to the speeches

Ask questions

SYMPOSIUM TECHNIQUE

Introductory speech of the chairperson

Introduction of the experts
Presentation by the experts
Discussion session
Consensus is reached
Concluding the session

SCOPE FOR THE USE OF SYMPOSIUM

The symposium technique is used to realize the higher cognitive and affective
objectives.

ADVANTAGES

Presents a wide basis for discussion

It has greater organization than other types of discussion
Persons involved have different roles to play which avoids conflicts and
misunderstanding among them

DISADVANTAGES

There will be no discussion between members of symposium

Speeches limited to 15-20 minutes and therefore the speakers are seriously hampered

in development of their topics

As there is no rehearsal, the presenter may find it difficult, specially if they are
presenting for the first time

LIMITATIONS

Listeners remain passive

The participants take decision, hence mature person can make use of this technique
Higher objectives of cognitive domain but affective objectives are not emphasized

CONCLUSION

A symposium is an educational conference where people get together to discuss thoughts and
exchange ideas, rather than to be lectured at.