Introduction

Various study programme components require students to give a verbal presentation. In many cases, this follows the production of a written report and the presentation should cover the main points included in that report. Assessment takes both the content and the student's skills into account.

This guide is concerned with presentation skills. It sets out the requirements for a verbal presentation and offers some useful tips to help you prepare and give your presentation.

Very few people are 'born' speakers. Most of us have to learn the required skills. Fortunately, experience shows that, given effective practice and feedback, almost everyone can do so, and can continue to achieve significant improvement in their presentation skills. Good preparation plays an essential role.

The 'Verbal Presentation' component of this course offers students the opportunity to improve their skills in this very important area. These skills will undoubtedly prove invaluable in future, both during the remainder of your study programme and, more especially, later in your career.

Tips:

• Produce a timetable for your preparation, whereby the final week should be reserved for a few 'dry runs' or 'dress rehearsals'.
• If the presentation is to be given by a group, agree who is to be responsible for what.