Panelist vs. Panel — What's the Difference?
By Maham Liaqat & Fiza Rafique — Updated on April 2, 2024
A panelist is an individual member of a panel, often contributing expertise or opinions, while a panel is a group assembled for a discussion or evaluation.
Difference Between Panelist and Panel
Table of Contents
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Key Differences
Panelists are individuals selected to participate in a panel, typically because of their expertise, experiences, or perspectives on a specific subject. They contribute through discussion, answering questions, or presenting information. Panels, on the other hand, refer to the collective group of these individuals, often assembled to discuss a topic, provide insights, or make evaluations in various settings like conferences, TV shows, or academic symposiums.
A panelist often has a specific role or contribution in mind, being chosen for their unique insights or specialized knowledge. They engage with other panelists, moderators, and sometimes an audience. Panels are defined by their purpose and composition, which can vary greatly from educational settings to entertainment, and include members with diverse or complementary expertise.
While a panelist's contribution is generally limited to the duration of the panel discussion or event, the impact of a panel as a whole can extend beyond, influencing opinions, decisions, or policy. Panels are designed to offer a multifaceted view on a subject, facilitated by the contributions of each panelist.
In terms of participation, a panelist actively engages by speaking, presenting, or debating on the panel's topic. Panels serve as the platform for this engagement, providing the structure and context for the discussion. This setup allows for a dynamic exchange of ideas among the panelists and between panelists and the audience.
The selection of panelists is crucial for the success of a panel. Organizers often look for individuals who can offer valuable perspectives, stimulate discussion, and engage the audience. The composition of a panel, including its size, diversity, and the expertise of its members, plays a key role in its effectiveness and the quality of the discourse.
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Comparison Chart
Definition
An individual member of a panel
A group of individuals assembled to discuss a topic
Role
Contributes expertise or opinions
Hosts discussion or evaluation
Composition
Singular, with specific expertise
Collective, diverse expertise
Engagement
Actively participates in discussion
Facilitates discussion among panelists
Impact
Contribution is part of a larger discussion
Can influence broader opinions or decisions
Compare with Definitions
Panelist
A panelist is often an expert or specialist invited to share insights.
The panelist shared her groundbreaking research findings.
Panel
Panels are often part of larger conferences, seminars, or symposiums.
The highlight of the conference was the expert panel.
Panelist
Panelists contribute to the discussion by expressing their viewpoints.
Each panelist offered a unique perspective on the topic.
Panel
A panel is a forum for discussion or debate on a specific topic.
The panel on climate change sparked a lively debate.
Panelist
Panelists often influence public opinion or policy through their contributions.
His compelling arguments as a panelist swayed public opinion.
Panel
A panel combines the expertise of multiple individuals.
The panel brought together experts from diverse fields.
Panelist
They interact with the audience, answering questions or clarifying information.
The panelist responded to audience inquiries with detailed explanations.
Panel
Panels can influence opinions, decisions, or policy.
The findings presented by the panel led to policy revisions.
Panelist
In some cases, panelists engage in debates, defending their positions.
The panelist debated the merits of renewable energy sources.
Panel
Panels aim to engage the audience, offering insights and answering questions.
The audience participated actively during the panel's Q&A session.
Panelist
A member of a panel.
Panel
A flat or curved component, typically rectangular, that forms or is set into the surface of a door, wall, or ceiling
A layer of insulating material should be placed between the panels and the wall
Panelist
(American spelling) A person who is a member of a panel.
Panel
A flat board on which instruments or controls are fixed
A control panel
Panelist
A member of a panel
Panel
A small group of people brought together to investigate or decide on a particular matter
An interview panel
Panel
A person or people charged with an offence.
Panel
Cover (a wall or other surface) with panels
An elegant panelled dining room
Panel
A flat, usually rectangular piece forming a raised, recessed, or framed part of the surface in which it is set.
Panel
The space or section in a fence or railing between two posts.
Panel
A vertical section of fabric; a gore.
Panel
A thin wooden board, used as a surface for an oil painting.
Panel
A painting on such a board.
Panel
A board having switches or buttons to control an electric device.
Panel
An instrument panel.
Panel
A section of a telephone switchboard.
Panel
A cartoon drawing in a sequence of cartoons that form a narrative.
Panel
The complete list of persons summoned for jury duty.
Panel
Those persons chosen from this list to constitute a pool from which a jury or juries will be selected for a particular court.
Panel
A jury.
Panel
A group of people gathered to plan or discuss an issue, judge a contest, or act as a team on a radio or television quiz program.
Panel
A discussion by such a group.
Panel
To cover or furnish with panels.
Panel
To decorate with panels.
Panel
To separate into panels.
Panel
A (usually) rectangular section of a surface, or of a covering or of a wall, fence etc.
Behind the picture was a panel on the wall.
Panel
(architectural element) A sunken compartment with raised margins, moulded or otherwise, as in ceilings, wainscotings, etc.
Panel
A group of people gathered to judge, interview, discuss etc. as on a television or radio broadcast for example.
Today’s panel includes John Smith.
Panel
A portion of text or other material within a book, newspaper, web page, etc. set apart from the main body or separated by a border.
Panel
(comics) An individual frame or drawing in a comic.
The last panel of a comic strip usually contains a punchline.
Panel
(graphical user interface) A type of GUI widget, such as a control panel.
Admin panel
Panel
(law) A document containing the names of persons summoned as jurors by the sheriff.
Panel
(law) The whole jury.
Panel
A prisoner arraigned for trial at the bar of a criminal court.
Panel
(obsolete) A piece of cloth serving as a saddle.
Panel
A soft pad beneath a saddletree to prevent chafing.
Panel
(joinery) A board having its edges inserted in the groove of a surrounding frame.
The panel of a door
Panel
(masonry) One of the faces of a hewn stone.
Panel
(masonry) A slab or plank of wood used instead of a canvas for painting on.
Panel
(mining) A heap of dressed ore.
Panel
(mining) One of the districts divided by pillars of extra size, into which a mine is laid off in one system of extracting coal.
Panel
(dressmaking) A plain strip or band, as of velvet or plush, placed at intervals lengthwise on the skirt of a dress, for ornament.
Panel
A portion of a framed structure between adjacent posts or struts, as in a bridge truss.
Panel
A list of doctors who could provide limited free healthcare prior to the introduction of the NHS.
Panel
(medicine) A group of tests or assays, a battery.
Panel
To enter (jury members) on an official list of jurors; to empanel.
Panel
To fit (an animal, especially a mule or ass) with a panel or simple padded saddle.
Panel
(transitive) To fit (a room etc.) with panels.
Panel
A sunken compartment with raised margins, molded or otherwise, as in ceilings, wainscotings, etc.
Panel
A piece of parchment or a schedule, containing the names of persons summoned as jurors by the sheriff;
Panel
Any group of persons selected to judge a contest, conduct a discussion, serve as advisers, or participate in any group activity in which they will provide information or make judgments.
Panel
Formerly, a piece of cloth serving as a saddle; hence, a soft pad beneath a saddletree to prevent chafing.
Panel
A board having its edges inserted in the groove of a surrounding frame; as, the panel of a door.
Panel
One of the faces of a hewn stone.
Panel
A slab or plank of wood upon which, instead of canvas, a picture is painted.
Panel
A heap of dressed ore.
Panel
A plain strip or band, as of velvet or plush, placed at intervals lengthwise on the skirt of a dress, for ornament.
Panel
A portion of a framed structure between adjacent posts or struts, as in a bridge truss.
Panel
A segment of an aëroplane wing. In a biplane the outer panel extends from the wing tip to the next row of posts, and is trussed by oblique stay wires.
Panel
To form in or with panels; as, to panel a wainscot.
Panel
Sheet that forms a distinct (usually flat) section or component of something
Panel
A committee appointed to judge a competition
Panel
(law) a group of people summoned for jury service (from whom a jury will be chosen)
Panel
A group of people gathered for a special purpose as to plan or discuss an issue or judge a contest etc
Panel
A pad placed under a saddle
Panel
(computer science) a small temporary window in a graphical user interface that appears in order to request information from the user; after the information has been provided the user dismisses the box with `okay' or `cancel'
Panel
Electrical device consisting of an insulated panel containing switches and dials and meters for controlling other electrical devices;
He checked the instrument panel
Suddenly the board lit up like a Christmas tree
Panel
Decorate with panels;
Panel the walls with wood
Panel
Select from a list;
Empanel prospective jurors
Common Curiosities
What is a panel?
A panel is a group of individuals assembled to discuss, debate, or provide insights on a particular subject.
What is a panelist?
A panelist is an individual who participates in a panel, contributing their expertise or opinions on a specific topic.
How many people are on a typical panel?
The number can vary, but a typical panel consists of 3 to 5 members to allow for a diversity of opinions without overcrowding the discussion.
How do panel discussions benefit attendees?
Attendees gain insights, perspectives, and knowledge from experts, which can enhance understanding and stimulate new ideas.
What makes a good panelist?
A good panelist is knowledgeable, articulate, engaging, and able to present their ideas clearly and effectively.
What's the difference between a panelist and a moderator?
A panelist contributes content and opinions, while a moderator facilitates the discussion, ensuring it flows smoothly and stays on topic.
Can panels influence decision-making?
Yes, panels can significantly influence decision-making, especially if they include well-respected or influential individuals.
Can anyone be a panelist?
While anyone can theoretically be a panelist, panels usually consist of individuals recognized for their knowledge or experience in a specific field.
What is the role of the audience in a panel discussion?
The audience can listen, learn, and often participate through questions or comments, contributing to the dynamic of the discussion.
How are panels organized?
Panels are organized around a specific topic, with panelists selected for their ability to contribute meaningful discussion on the subject.
How is a panelist chosen?
Panelists are typically chosen based on their expertise, experience, or ability to contribute valuable perspectives on the panel's topic.
Do panelists need to agree with each other?
No, differing viewpoints are often encouraged to provide a comprehensive discussion on the subject matter.
Can a panel discussion be virtual?
Yes, with advancements in technology, many panels are now conducted virtually, allowing broader participation.
Are panels always formal events?
No, panels can range from formal academic discussions to informal debates on lighter topics, depending on the context.
What happens after a panel discussion?
Outcomes can include published summaries, policy recommendations, or continued discussions in other forums, depending on the panel's purpose.
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Written by
Maham Liaqat
Co-written by
Fiza RafiqueFiza Rafique is a skilled content writer at AskDifference.com, where she meticulously refines and enhances written pieces. Drawing from her vast editorial expertise, Fiza ensures clarity, accuracy, and precision in every article. Passionate about language, she continually seeks to elevate the quality of content for readers worldwide.
