Presentation Skills

DESCRIPTION: 
Modern communication theory, rhetoric and principles of speech writing. Development, organization, and delivery of informative and persuasive presentations. Training in verbal and non-verbal skills.

RATIONALE: 
A speaker must have presentation skills in order to convey information and take a position on a given topic. Presenting formal speeches before an audience provides the experience needed to apply principles of modern rhetoric and presentation skills.

LEARNING OUTCOMES: 
As a result of taking this course, the student should be able to:
1. Demonstrate knowledge of communication theory.
2. Apply the ethics of speech communication.
3. Design and present a variety of structured speeches clearly and confidently.
4. Make use of appropriate rate, projection, articulation, vocal variety, and movement when speaking that illustrates understanding of audience awareness.
5. Evaluate and critique speeches insightfully.

METHOD OF TEACHING AND LEARNING: 
Teaching and learning strategies include:
• Lectures, class discussions, group discussions, and workshop-style activities demonstrating textbook material during class meetings;
• Formative exercises and other learning tasks, including possible impromptu speaking, to help students acquire confidence and skill;
• Presentation of three researched speeches;
• Constructive criticism and discussion to follow each speech;
• Timely instructor written feedback on assignments;
• Additional print and audiovisual educational material posted on the Blackboard course template;
• Individualized assistance during office hours for further discussion of lecture material, assignments and examination.

ASSESSMENT: 
The final grade for this course is based on three presentations which are classified and evaluated as follows: informative speech 20%, persuasive speech: 20%, final persuasive speech: 30%, a midterm: 20%, and participation: 10%