Group presentations
There is a different dynamic to group presentations because different individuals bring with them different ideas.
Working together
- Communication is key
- Exchange phone numbers and/or emails
- Google docs or Prezi can be used so all members can contribute
- Establish a timeline, when and where to meet, practice, etc.
- All group members need to understand the assignment
- Topic needs to be identified
- Each individual may have a different idea
- Come to an agreement on one topic
- Topic needs to be relatable to the entire group
- Topic needs to be identified
- Every member should have a specific job
- Identify a lead member to keep the group organized
- One member can send out reminder emails/texts
- One member can compile the various components needed for presentation
After the research
- Decide on an approach for the presentation (if not determined by the instructor)
- Symposium – a short speech given by the group
- Forum – the group answers questions from the audience with short spontaneous speeches
- Panel – each group member provides information and answers questions
- Create a group outline
- Identify the role each member will have during the presentation
- Who is speaking, when, and what points
- Make time to practice the presentation as a group
- Practicing will allow for a smoother presentation
- Everyone will know transition points, especially if each member needs to speak
- By chance someone is unable to make presentation other members will be familiar with the information and be able to fill in the gaps
- All members will be confident with material
- Practicing will allow for a smoother presentation
The presentation
- State the purpose
- The goal of the speech
- The purpose
- Visual aids should enhance and support the speech
- Each member should use the same format for consistency
- Should look and feel coordinated
- All visual aids support the topic
- One member should take the lead role during the presentation
- Provide structure
- Keep track of time
- Ensures not one individual dominates the conversation
- Use outline if needed
- All group members need to be prepared to answer questions
- Each member should use the same format for consistency
Group appearance
- Group members should interact with one another
- Goal of speech is to keep it conversational
- Members of group should have a conversation together
- Think of a group of friends standing together. They do not necessary go in an order, they talk as the topic comes to interest them. Organize the delivery of your speech in the same manner
- Actively listen as each member presents
- Remember the audience is watching you and will pick up on the interactions between group members, even when you are not presenting
- Smiling, acknowledging one another will give the group credibility with the audience
- Remember the audience is watching you and will pick up on the interactions between group members, even when you are not presenting
References
Beebe, S. A., & Beebe, S. J. (2012). A concise public speaking handbook. Boston: Allyn & Bacon.
Lucas, S. (2012). The art of public speaking. New York, NY: McGraw-Hill.
Sprague, J. & Stuart, D. (2013). The speaker's compact handbook, 4th ed. Portland: Ringgold, Inc.
Vrooman, S. S. (2013). The zombie guide to public speaking: Why most presentations fail, and what you can do to avoid joining the horde. Place of publication not identified: CreateSpace.