A forum discussion is an open audience discussion which usually follows
a panel discussion.  It is extremely important that there is a set order to the
format of the forum because if topics are controversial things could get a
little out of hand.  Here are some tips to try and keep control.
 
 

• choose a chairperson to lead the forum
• announce the amount of time allowed for questions and comments
• ask audience members to raise there hands to be recognized
• limit audience members to one speaking turn until everyone who wants to speak has done so
• decide if only questions are allowed, only if comments are allowed, or both
• if the forum is addressing a large panel, have the audience member say which panelist he or she is directing their question and/or comment to and then ask them to repeat the question  to the audience
• when opinions are allowed make sure to have alternate view points addressed

Here is a quick list of leadership skills need by a chairperson of a forum:
 

• introduce the issue of the discussion in such a way that it will spark the audience to actively participate
• encourage brevity and clarity of audience questions and comments
• restate questions or comments that are confusing or unclear
• deal with questions and comments that are irrelevant, emotional, or obscure in a tactful manner
• summarizing the contents of the discussion quickly yet holistically when bring the forum to a close

• do not ask questions or make comments of a personal, trivial, or irrelevant nature because it will only waste the time of the forum
• state questions and comments in a brief, concise, but interesting manner
• try and maintain a positive attitude throughout the forum because frustration will not get the group anywhere

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