The sessions at the fifth annual Creativity Conference at Southern Oregon University triggered the following thoughts on the mechanics of presentations.
- Use of phrases like “time immemorial” and “unlimited potential” show imprecise thinking.
- Avoid the use of the word “must”. No audience member likes being told to have to do something.
- Square up your Zoom image. Be aware of the background. Look professional. If you are unfamiliar with the program, practice beforehand.
- Have respect for your fellow presenters. End on time and take only your share of the time when co-presenting.
- The way teachers present to colleagues is often very different from the way they teach, to the detriment of the presentation.
- It is worthwhile having someone listen to your presentation rehearsal for too noticeable inflections or droning or excessive fidgeting or odd rhythms.
- Think of a presentation like making a sale. Start with your result and then argue for it.
- Know who you are talking to.
- Shorten your talk to an exact point.
- Why ever small print?
- Why ever white print on a light background?
- Do not read a presentation.
- Make sure there is not going to be any noisy activity in rooms adjacent to the presentation rooms.
- Careful of going off tangent and thus not finishing.
- Avoid a recitation of news articles that most informed people have already seen.
Math Thoughts 