Presentation Techniques

A presenter should not rely on a sole method of instruction. A well-structured lecture would have more than one method of delivery. Remember that variety is necessary, but don’t go overboard.

A presenter on the other hand should not use more than two methods/techniques for presentation as this could confuse the audience and take up too much time.

The experienced lecturer/presenter will be able to look at a topic and decide on several methods that can be used independently, or in combination, for maximum benefit of the delegates.

The presenter must make the decision on which method to use of instructions based on the delegates' requirements and not on what the presenter feels like doing.

Lecture Type

• Referred to as ‘talking to’ or ‘talking at’ a group.
• To be effective, presenters always need to be on top of things and to be interesting and amusing to the audience.
• A significant advantage of lecturing is that the lecture time can be judged to the last minute.
• The presenter must always be aware of the audience.
• The lecture does not allow for any form of immediate evaluation.
• No two-way communication between presenter and audience take place.

Facilitation

• Like lecture, except that the facilitator encourages some group participation.
• Common in adult training, the facilitator relies on participant experiences to generate some discussion.
• Questions are encouraged.
• This form of lecture should allow some evaluation at the end.
• This method of instruction is extremely efficient.
• When preparing, allow enough time for group participation.

Roleplays

• Involve the presenter and the group.
• Design a simple script about the situation the participant may be placed in.
• Get group members to act out the situation in identified positions.
• Participants do most of the work. This gives commitment to follow the role play.
• Make the show fast moving and get everyone involved.
• Hold a debriefing session after the role-play exercise is finished.
• Give everyone feedback on the process and highlight important points or issues.

Group Discussion

Structured Discussion

• Discussion between participants to meet set objectives.
• Group input gives more motivation to meet objectives.
• Participants are responsible for setting the agenda.

Open Forum Discussion

• Unstructured discussion.
• Used to voice opinions or vent frustrations.
• Ground rules must be set before the discussion starts.
• Beware of dominant persons who tend to do all the talking.

Panel Discussion

• Almost like a lecture, does not allow a great deal of participant input.
• Panel is made up of a group of topic experts each with their own sub topic.
• Starts at a logical point and builds on the previous topic, all topics being related.
• To be effective, it must be mixed with a question-and-answer method.

Simulations

• Used for team-building exercises.
• Complex structure that requires more participant input.
• Devide group into smaller teams with different exercises.
• Groups are placed into situations where they must solve problems or build on visions.
• Groups must present their findings and results to all the participants.
• Simulations are used for training of individuals.
• Used to give flight and driving training.
• Complex and expensive to set up.

Student Practice

• Should be allowed after method of instruction.
• This is the most effective form of practice and ultimately the most important evaluation.