A seminar is a form of academic instruction, either at an academic institution or offered by a commercial or professional organization.
It has the function of bringing together small groups for recurring meetings, focusing each time on some particular subject, in which everyone present is requested to participate.
This is often accomplished through an ongoing dialogue with a leader or instructor, or through a formal or informal presentation of research.
It is essentially a place where assigned readings are discussed, questions can be raised and debates can be conducted.