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Master of Child and Family Health: Presentation

What is a presentation?

At university, a presentation is when you verbally tell an audience about your research. This may be done in person or by creating a video recording. There may also be supporting material as well, such as a PowerPoint. Depending on the assessment, the presentation may be individual or as a group.

The important part of a presentation is the speech.

  • Know your subject matter: It's easier to talk about something you fully understand
  • Read from something: Have notes, but don't read them word for word. Try using dot points or cue cards instead
  • Stick to a format: Give your presentation structure. Try dividing your points into sections that flow logically
  • Use clear and simple language: Accessible language allows a broader audience to understand you

Creating a presentation

Plan

  • Analyse your audience: What does your audience already know about the subject? What do they want to know? How can you engage the audience?
  • Determine the purpose: Is it to provide information, persuade the audience of a point of view, or encourage them to take action?
  • Select effective information: What will best support the presentation? What will appeal to the audience? Are there useful examples or case studies?

Prepare

  • Introduction: Engage your audience, explain the issue and outline the key points.
  • Body: A clear structure of the main ideas, explanations or reasoning.
  • Conclusion: Summarise the key points and findings.
  • Visual aids: Enhance your presentation by providing a visual link

Practise

  • Practise your presentation several times aloud
  • Time it so it fits in your allotted time
  • Speak naturally from cue cards

Equipment

  • Familiarise yourself with the equipment
  • Time yourself using it

Delivery

  • Stand up straight
  • Rest your hands at waist level
  • Look at your audience when you speak
  • Speak more slowly and clearly than usual
  • It is normal to be nervous!

Support material can help emphasise your key points. There are many tools you can use, but check the assessment instructions to see what the task requires. PowerPoint is a popular option. The following points are applicable to different tools such as PowerPoint, e-posters, and other digital support materials. 

  • Only put essential information on slides. They should not duplicate your speech. You want the audience to listen to you, not read slides. Images and graphics can work well.
  • Avoid distractions: Keep the content simple as busy presentations will draw the audience's attention away from you.
  • Have a Plan B: Technology can fail. Bring a back up such as a USB
  • Set up first: Finish setting up before you start speaking. Check everything works and you have what you need.

Group tasks are a standard part of study at university and are important to prepare you for employment. 

  • Forming a group: Work with people you are comfortable with and trust to contribute. Allocate tasks to each group member to ensure the workload is fair.
  • Planning: The tasks will depend on the assessment type and topic. As a general rule, set deadlines for each stage to be completed and have regular meetings. You can set up a timeline to step you through tasks. Be responsible for your tasks. Address any problems early and as a group.
  • Presenting: Good preparation helps you feel confident and in control. Organise your roles, and rehearse your delivery together.
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