What is a forum? Know its main characteristics
Williams Smiths
On the internet, there are numerous websites that host virtual forums. What is a forum? A forum is a type of meeting where people talk and comment on a topic that interests them. A discussion is generated in the forum, led by a moderator who intervenes to make it orderly. Currently, the forum is also developed in writing, since there are numerous websites that host virtual forums on the Internet.
Main features of the forum
- A large number of people with diverse perspectives participate.
- It is discussed around a previously agreed topic.
- There is a moderator in charge of presenting the topic, regulating the interventions of the participants, and stimulating the discussion with questions.
- All participants take part in the discussion contributing their points of view and respectfully dialoguing with the different perspectives. Image result for forum
- Due to the number of participants, each intervention must be brief, it must not exceed two minutes on average.
- As a structured discussion, the forum is developed with a beginning or introduction by the moderator, in which he presents the topic to be discussed and the rules for the participants; a development in which the participants present their opinions, respecting the speaking turns determined by the moderator, and closing, also by the moderator, who synthesizes the main points of the discussion and appreciates the participation.
Some Forum sites where you can join
1. sbnation.com
10. azsnakepit.com
11. badlefthook.com
16. bigblueview.com
18. blazersedge.com
21. blessyouboys.com
22. blogabull.com
25. bloodyelbow.com
29. brewcrewball.com
30. brewhoop.com
33. bucsdugout.com
34. bucsnation.com
37. camdenchat.com
40. canishoopus.com
42. celticsblog.com
43. cincyjungle.com
44. clipsnation.com
45. coppernblue.com
50. denverstiffs.com
To hold the forum, keep in mind the following recommendations:
- All members of the course must know the subject previously so that they can discuss it with foundations.
- It is important that the different participants contribute with different points of view about the subject. If everyone thinks alike, there is no exchange of ideas.
- It is convenient to designate a coordinator to regulate the interventions and synthesize the key ideas of the topic.
- Remember to pay attention to the different dimensions of communication: verbally, take care to express yourself clearly and in an appropriate language; in the paraverbal, manage the pauses and the intensity of the voice according to the ideas you want to emphasize; and non-verbally, look the other participants in the forum in the eye, show interest when listening and try not to make mechanical movements that distract the interlocutors or the audience.
- As in any exercise of oral communication, tolerance, respect for people, opinions and times are key.