Discussant

A discussant is a person who participates in the formal discussion of a presentation, paper, or performance, typically within academic settings such as conferences, symposiums, or seminar series. The discussant is usually selected by the session chair and may be a peer, a junior scholar, or a senior expert, depending on the context. The role centers on provided commentary rather than formal evaluation, aiming to deepen understanding and stimulate discussion.

Responsibilities commonly include preparing a concise, substantive commentary that summarizes the work, situates it within relevant literature, notes strengths and limitations, and raises constructive questions. The discussant delivers this critique in a short oral presentation, after which the session chair facilitates discussion with the author and audience. The goal is to clarify points, highlight methodological or theoretical issues, and connect the work to broader debates, rather than to pass judgment or assign grades.

Process typically involves reading the manuscript or abstract in advance and drafting a commentary that can be shared with the author for accuracy before the session, depending on norms. During the session, the discussant may emphasize key contributions, point out gaps, and suggest directions for future research, inviting audience engagement and author responses.

Variations exist across disciplines and formats. In some contexts, a discussant may synthesize themes across multiple papers in a session or serve as a critical but constructive interlocutor rather than a reviewer. The role is distinct from formal peer review and is oriented toward in-session dialogue and scholarly exchange.