Introduction to Public Speaking

 

Angelica Vasquez

September 22, 2023

Introduction:  

As a member of group number two of the Introduction to Public Speaking class, about the book “iSpeak” by Paul Nelson, Scott Titsworth, and Juddy Pearson. I will narrate in this blog about my experience being part of the presentation group, and I will deepen the knowledge acquired when carrying out my topic and my opinion as a spectator of the other groups.  

Supporting Material: 

The chapter that I chose to do, personally, helped me a lot in making my speech, since the topic that I dealt with "types of outlines" on pages 122-130 gave me constructive information on how I should make a speech, the steps that I knew there were three, which I applied one by one.

First, The working outline served as my initial canvas, a place where ideas flow freely and find their place in the speech is framework. It is a brainstorming session on paper, allowing me to explore different angles and perspectives. This stage is crucial for me to gain a comprehensive understanding of my topic and how various elements fit together. It offers a sense of flexibility, enabling me to easily tweak and refine my thoughts as I go. Without this phase, my speeches would lack the depth and coherence that a well-organized foundation provides.

Second, The formal outline: transitioning from the working outline to a formal one is like building the scaffolding for a sturdy structure. It is here that I establish a clear roadmap for my speech, complete with headings, subheadings, and a logical flow of ideas. This outline acts as my guide during the actual presentation, ensuring that I stay on track and cover all essential points. It is an indispensable tool for maintaining coherence and ensuring that my message is communicated effectively. Without a formal outline, my speeches would risk becoming disjointed and less impactful.

And finally, the keyboard outline: this stage also provides an opportunity for me to become intimately familiar with the material, making it easier to deliver confidently and naturally when the time comes. Without this step, my speeches would lack the finesse and polish that come from thorough editing and revision.  

In essence, these outlines are my trusted companions in the journey of speech preparation.

They provide structure, clarity, and a platform for refinement. Without them, my speeches would lack the depth, coherence, and impact that I strive for. They are the foundation upon which I build compelling and engaging presentations that I will continue to use for future presentations. 

Slides and Presentation: 

What I also learned in this chapter is that visual aids are absolutely crucial when it comes to improving the effectiveness of my presentations. They serve as powerful tools to complement my spoken words and highlight key points. 

Visual aids are indispensable tools in enhancing the effectiveness of presentations. They serve as a bridge between the speaker's words and the audience's understanding. Complex ideas can be distilled into digestible visuals, making information more accessible. This aids comprehension, ensuring that the audience not only hears but also sees and internalizes the message. 

Engagement is another critical factor. Well-designed visuals captivate attention and leave a lasting impression. They provide a focal point for the audience to latch onto, reinforcing key points. Additionally, visuals cater to diverse learning styles, accommodating both visual and auditory learners. This inclusivity ensures that everyone in the audience can connect with the material. 

In my experience, a well-thought-out visual aid can transform a good presentation into an exceptional one. It is not just about making things look pretty; it is about adding depth, clarity, and engagement to my message. By leveraging the power of visual aids, I am able to connect with my audience on a more profound level, leaving a lasting impression long after the presentation is over. 

Organization: 

The structure of my team was quite considerable, after organizing our topics for each member, a shared PowerPoint presentation link was given so that each one had the opportunity to do it on the spot according to their itinerary. 

Regarding coordination, we agreed on a date and time in which we would be available to practice before our official presentation in class in addition to reviewing and completing missing slides, making changes, and correcting errors. The practices did not occur with all the participants since many of us went through inconveniences and overly complicated itineraries, Therefore, at the time of the presentation we were involved in some transition problems. Even so, each one was able to make their presentation without any problem, obtaining their respective grades.

Opinions of the presentations: 

The presentations offered a unique perspective and style. The facilitator encouraged everyone to express themselves freely, fostering an atmosphere of trust and camaraderie. Each member took turns delivering speeches on their respective topics, and constructive feedback flowed smoothly, highlighting strengths, and suggesting areas for improvement. As the session progressed, confidence grew, and a palpable sense of accomplishment filled the meeting room.

It was an enriching experience that left everyone inspired to continue honing their speaking skills. The group offered valuable insights, focusing on areas such as rhythm, vocal modulation, and engaging storytelling techniques.

Personal Impact: 

Experiencing this impact has fundamentally changed how I approach future speeches. It has shifted my focus from simply conveying information to creating an emotional connection. I now invest more time in understanding my audience and tailoring my message to their needs and interests. I have also become more attuned to the nuances of delivery - the pacing, tone, and gestures that can enhance or detract from the message. 

 

Furthermore, the confidence gained from a successful presentation rippled into all aspects of my professional and personal life. It emboldens me to speak up in meetings, contribute to discussions, and engage with others more assertively. This newfound confidence has even extended to my everyday interactions, making me a more effective communicator in all areas of my life. 

Overall, the impact of a well-received presentation has transformed me from a speaker to a communicator. It heightened my awareness of the audience's experience and sharpened my ability to convey messages with clarity and resonance. This evolution has not only elevated my public speaking skills but has also enriched my overall communication abilities, making me a more effective and impactful communicator in various aspects of my life.