On completion of this chapter students will know how to: identify the most appropriate presentation style use strategies to engage and interact with an audience, prepare effective slides, use knowledge about non-verbal factors to improve a presentation, appreciate the value of preparation, understand the importance of voice in presenting effectively. | Chapter 9 Oral presentation skills Learning objectives On completion of this chapter students will know how to: identify the most appropriate presentation style use strategies to engage and interact with an audience prepare effective slides use knowledge about non-verbal factors to improve a presentation appreciate the value of preparation understand the importance of voice in presenting effectively. Public speaking Public speaking skills are increasingly important given a greater focus on information-related skills. In many universities public and professional speaking skills is considered to be an important graduate quality. The good news is that effective public speaking can be learned! Overcoming fear Anxiety can be offset by: visualising a successful presentation practising thoroughly ‘acting’ positive and confident, as an audience will ‘mirror’ your approach. Activities 1 and 2 Complete Activities 1 and 2 on p. 194–195 of your textbook. Preparing for a . | Chapter 9 Oral presentation skills Learning objectives On completion of this chapter students will know how to: identify the most appropriate presentation style use strategies to engage and interact with an audience prepare effective slides use knowledge about non-verbal factors to improve a presentation appreciate the value of preparation understand the importance of voice in presenting effectively. Public speaking Public speaking skills are increasingly important given a greater focus on information-related skills. In many universities public and professional speaking skills is considered to be an important graduate quality. The good news is that effective public speaking can be learned! Overcoming fear Anxiety can be offset by: visualising a successful presentation practising thoroughly ‘acting’ positive and confident, as an audience will ‘mirror’ your approach. Activities 1 and 2 Complete Activities 1 and 2 on p. 194–195 of your textbook. Preparing for a presentation Even short, informal speeches require preparation. Never agree to do a presentation and then just turn up, hoping that the ideas will come to you as you speak! Videoing a practice speech provides an opportunity to gain slightly more objectivity by seeing yourself as others do. Windschuttle & Elliott Windschuttle & Elliott (1999, p. 356) suggest that preparation will be rewarded in several ways: Audiences appreciate well prepared speakers. Prepared speakers are more persuasive. Well prepared speakers are more likely to satisfy audience expectations. Prepared presenters gain confidence for next time. Activities 3–5 Complete Activities 3, 4 and 5 on pp. 195–198 of your textbook. Group presentations Practice is even more important for group presentations. Coordinating with a group of other speakers requires commitment and teamwork. Decide which speakers will be responsible for which parts of the presentation and convey this information to the audience. Work out the .
