Academic Skills - Presenting Effectively - Part 1

Steve Campitelli introduces the topic of 'Presenting Effectively', outlining that it will be covered in two parts. This first part focuses on the presentation itself and its sequencing, while the second will address PowerPoint and visual aids.

Drawing on the work of Dr. Susan Weinschenk, five essential principles for effective presenting are discussed. These include dividing information into sequenced chunks, being mindful of multiple sensory channels, understanding the importance of nonverbal communication, having a clear 'call to action' or 'takeaway message', and imitating positive emotions to influence the audience.

Every presentation, regardless of length, should have three core parts: an introduction (telling them what you're going to tell them), a body (telling them), and a conclusion (telling them what you've just told them). The introduction should set context and use a 'hook' to engage the audience. The body should be clearly sectioned and tell a logical story to a neutral, intelligent but uninformed listener. The conclusion should clearly reiterate the takeaway message.

The video distinguishes between content language and functional language. Functional language is crucial for guiding the audience through the presentation, using phrases for sectioning, transitions, rephrasing, clarifying, emphasizing, summarizing, and moving between points. This language signals important information and aids audience comprehension.