BREAKOUT SESSION Meaning and
Definition
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A breakout session is a term commonly used in the context of conferences, seminars, or workshops to describe a designated period of time during which participants split into smaller groups to engage in focused discussions or activities. These sessions usually occur concurrently with other sessions or presentations happening within the same event.
During a breakout session, attendees have the opportunity to delve deeper into a particular topic or theme relevant to the event. The purpose is to encourage more interactive and participatory learning experiences, allowing participants to exchange ideas, enhance their understanding, and build connections with others who share similar interests or expertise.
Typically, breakout sessions are facilitated by subject matter experts or facilitators who guide and moderate the discussions, ensuring that the agenda and objectives of the session are met. Participants are encouraged to actively contribute, ask questions, and share their opinions or experiences in an open and collaborative environment.
Breakout sessions offer a valuable space for networking, brainstorming, problem-solving, and interactive learning. They allow participants to gain insights from different perspectives, engage in hands-on activities, and explore specific aspects of a broader topic in a more focused and intimate setting.
Overall, breakout sessions are designed to enrich the overall conference or event experience by providing opportunities for deeper exploration and active engagement, fostering meaningful connections, and facilitating the exchange of knowledge and ideas among participants.
Etymology of BREAKOUT SESSION
The word "breakout session" is a compound term that combines the words "breakout" and "session".
"Breakout" originally derives from the phrasal verb "to break out", which originated in the 15th century. "Break" originated from the old English word "brecan", meaning to separate or divide. "Out" is from the Old English word "ut", meaning "outward" or "from within".
"Session" comes from the Latin word "sessio", which means "act of sitting", referring to a formal meeting or gathering where people come together for a specific purpose.
Thus, a "breakout session" refers to a specific session or gathering that allows participants to divide or separate into smaller groups for more focused discussion or activity.
