Abstract
Objective: Little attention has been paid to the type of communication that occurs at academic societies and other similar institutions, or an academic society as Health Conference has not attracted peoples attention. Therefore, we studied the round table session (hereafter called the RT), which is a presentation method that readily stimulates communication between participants. We aimed at studying the influence of an RT's location and the interchanges that occur in RTs.
Methods: We studied the themes, number of participants, and languages (degree of technicality, eloquence, and formality) used in five RTs that were held on June 5, 2004 using a questionnaire (participants answered questions on the sheet in their own words) . We collected qualitative information about the current positioning/status and process of RTs. The participants of this study were 52 (out of) participants who submitted the questionnaire at the end of the RTs. We analyzed the individual groups.
Results: The results of the qualitative analysis indicate that the participants independently provide input and that RTs are a presentation method in which the participants can learn and become aware of information. The RT is a presentation method in which participants independently provide input, and empowerment is achieved in RTs through listening and conversing.
Conclusion: The RT has a different advantage from conventional oral presentations or poster presentation, and can be used effectively for successful conferences (e.g., Health Conference) . The RT is an announcement method that presents new possibilities.
