A seminar is a small group discussion session. Unlike a lecture, where one person talks and many listen, a seminar depends on everyone participating. Students read material beforehand and come ready to discuss it. The instructor guides but does not dominate.

Seminar sizes usually range from eight to twenty students. That is small enough for everyone to speak and large enough for varied views. Sessions last one to three hours. Some are weekly. Others meet once or twice for an intensive topic.

The format originated in European universities and remains common in graduate programs. It works best when students prepare. A seminar where no one has read the text becomes an awkward lecture. A seminar where everyone has read it can be one of the best learning experiences a student has.

What makes it work

• Advance reading and preparation
• Active participation
• Skilled facilitation
• Respectful disagreement
• Clear focus and goals