Alexa Measles
8 May 2014
PC-2500

Final: Reflective Paper Delivering an effective oral presentation is not very difficult. Just be sure to follow a few guidelines and stipulations. Before, I had no idea how to create an effective presentation. I knew nothing about the organization, knowing not to leave slides up for too long, or even evaluating and critiquing videos. Now, after this class, I know how to prepare and present an effective oral presentation. A lot of thought and preparation goes into creating a good oral presentation. A presenter has to plan for his or her audience. You must make your information interesting and easy to follow. For example, if you are presenting to a younger audience or elderly audience, be sure to simplify the information in terms they would understand. If relevant, start your presentation out with a story! It captures the audience’s attention from the start. The introduction and conclusion are the most important parts of your presentation. The introduction introduces the presentation and lets the audience know what you are going to discuss. The conclusion is the segment the audience will remember most. As a presenter, it is your last chance to make an impression, reinforce your argument, and repeat the main points. In the body of the presentation you need to hold the audience’s attention. To do so, use graphs, charts, or pictures. Even though these are only a few techniques to help create an effective presentation, they are a great start in preparing and organizing your presentation!
Throughout this class, I have learned various techniques and strategies that have helped me in creating and delivering a good oral presentation. I learned that if you are able to choose your topic, choose a topic that you are familiar with. Also, choose a topic that is relevant, and not something silly. If you choose a topic that you are familiar with, it is easier to talk about and you feel more comfortable. I also learned that eye contact is very important. It shows that you are confident in what you are saying. From the start, I have had trouble using my hands during the presentations. By watching the videos and critiquing myself, I now know how important it is to use your hands during a presentation. By using your hands, you are engaging with the audience. Also, you look more natural when you use your hands during a presentation. I have also learned how to correctly critique a video. Before, I would not have looked at the organization or the visual aids of the presentation. Now, I look at whether or not the picture is left up too long, if the lighting or sound is bad, and various other things. Also, when critiquing a video, be sure to do it in a nice way. For example, “The organization was great! Next time, try and use more eye contact, it helps you connect with your audience!” Everything I learned from this class did and will continue to help me create effective oral presentations. This class not only helped me now, but also will help me in the future. Whether I am speaking to a class or in front of a camera, I will remember techniques and strategies to help me create a good oral presentation. Before this class, I was not aware of all the preparation that goes into a presentation. Now, I know how to create a good presentation using various strategies and techniques. Overall, I really enjoyed this class and everything it had to offer. I look forward to creating more effective oral presentations in the future!