Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) Practice Exam

What type of setups encourage group discussion while a speaker is presenting?

1. Theater and Boardroom

2. U shape and Horseshoe

3. Octagonal and Oval conference

4. Linear and Corner booths

The correct answer is: U shape and Horseshoe

The setups that encourage group discussion while a speaker is presenting are the U shape and Horseshoe configurations. These arrangements create an open space in the center, allowing for better visibility and interaction among participants. In a U shape, attendees are seated at a rectangular arrangement open at one end, which facilitates conversation between the audience and the speaker, as well as among the attendees themselves. This encourages dialogue, questions, and contributions from participants during the presentation. Similarly, the Horseshoe setup, which resembles a U but is often more open, enhances visibility and the ability to engage in discussions. Participants can see and hear each other clearly while remaining connected to the speaker, thereby fostering a collaborative atmosphere. The other setups mentioned do not provide the same level of interaction. For instance, Theater setups typically utilize rows of seating facing a stage or speaker, limiting audience interaction. Boardroom setups, while they can allow for discussion, often don't create the same open environment that U shape and Horseshoe configurations do. The Octagonal and Oval conference setups may provide some interaction, but typically do not promote discussion in the same effective manner as U shape and Horseshoe setups. Linear and Corner booths are primarily for exhibitions or trade shows and are not designed for encouraging group discussions.