A simple tally of logical points made for each member of the panel is effective. Requiring observers to make specific comments assists panel members to evaluate how they came across to the audience. The instructor also keeps a tally of points made by each speaker. Comments for each speaker and a grade can be assessed on the spot. As the panel comes to a close of discussion, the point under focus can be opened to the entire class.
Timing is up to the discretion of the instructor.
Once a panel runs out of new points to address or seems to start repeating, it is best to move to another group and question. Students need to understand that they must participate or they will not earn a good grade. Each student receives two grades for the fishbowl panel discussion unit. The second grade is for the student's individual panel participation. These will be made available to the fishbowl panel at a later time.