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Long presentations

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Two types of long presentations are group presentations and long individual sessions. With both, involving the audience is very important. Often you will be introducing new content or helping to develop a knowledge area; in other words, you will be engaged in a type of teaching.

You will therefore have to consider the needs and interest levels of your audience, and include activities which help them absorb information better. Select from the links below to see suggestions for improving audience participation.

Long individual presentations

Group presentations

Long individual presentations

  • Rehearse a long session thoroughly.
  • Break up the session into separate stages (i.e. Introduction, Information Stage 1, Activity 1, Information Stage 2), Activity 2, etc.) Time these stages.
  • Incorporate individual and group activities and tasks.
  • Tasks for the audience are very useful in reducing pressure (because you don't have to talk). Activities also make it more interesting for the audience. The tasks need careful planning however, and must be relevant to the theme(s) of the presentation.
  • Consider using questionnaires, problem solving, role-plays, etc.
  • Organise the audience to work in pairs or groups, as well as individually.
  • Don't forget to give answers or feedback at the end of each activity.

Group presentations

  • Always rehearse any group presentation with all members present.
  • Never make a presentation without rehearsing it at least once all the way through. If you don't, this can be disastrous - groups will run over time or not be allowed to finish because you are running late. An overlong or disorganised presentation is also very boring for the audience.
  • The first presenter should introduce all group members and explain the structure of the talk briefly. An overhead is the easiest way to show this.
  • Make sure each presenter has an equal share in the presentation. For example, the introducer should present information as well as introduce the group. Ensure there is a good strong personality at the beginning of the talk. Help each other out during the talk.
  • Practise smooth handovers between presenters.
  • Make sure all group visuals, overheads, and written handouts are formatted and word processed identically. This will make the group presentation look more professional.
  • Group members should support the one speaking by listening attentively.
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