In a hearing scenario, experts with different positions are asked to give their opinion about an issue to a representatives of the organizing institution (often a regulatory agency). Specific questions are asked to each of the experts and once every expert has had a chance to give an answer the organizing committee can try to reach a conclusion on the subject. Hearings are a good way of developing understanding about an issue but may not always allow for a conclusion or final decision to be reached.
References: Adapted from OECD Guidance Document on Risk Communication for Chemical Risk Management
