How do workshops vary from seminars in professional development?

Workshops are characterized by their interactive and hands-on nature, which distinguishes them significantly from seminars. In a workshop setting, participants are typically engaged in practical exercises, group activities, and discussions that encourage active participation. This facilitates a deeper understanding of the material as participants can apply what they are learning in real-time. The structure of workshops usually involves smaller groups, allowing for more personalized interaction and feedback from facilitators.

In contrast, seminars tend to be more lecture-focused and generally involve a speaker or expert presenting information to a larger audience. While some level of engagement may occur through Q&A sessions, the overall format is less interactive compared to workshops. Therefore, the hands-on and participatory approach of workshops fosters skill development and practical application of knowledge in ways that seminars do not typically allow.

This makes the assertion about workshops being interactive and hands-on the most accurate distinction in understanding how these two professional development formats vary.