oral presentations. Presentations begin by showing a title slide (Wax, Cartin, &
Pinette, 2011), followed by a slide acknowledging funding sources and contribu-
tors. It is recommended to have one slide for every 30–60 seconds (Wax et al.,
2011). Time should be allotted for questions at the end of the presentation. It
is recommended that the last slide of the presentation be blank. This serves
as a cue to the audience that the presentation is concluded. Novice presenters
are advised to read papers from typed scripts rather than ad-libbing. With-
out experience, ad-libbing frequently results in a disorganized presentation
that goes beyond the time limits (Happell, 2009). One can expect that one
double-spaced typed page with 1-inch margins using an average sized font
equals 2 minutes of speaking time. The best way to gauge the length of the
presentation, however, is to rehearse the presentation aloud while using the
visual aids. Typically, people speak faster when presenting than when rehears-
ing. Inserting visual cues into the script, such as “slow down” or “breathe,”
serves as a reminder for maintaining an appropriate speaking pace. Another
helpful strategy to aid delivery is to enlarge the font so that the script is easier
to read. Also, large font and familiarity with content can be invaluable if there
is inadequate lighting at the podium (Happell, 2009; Wax et al., 2011). It is
recommended to rehearse alone the first few times, followed by practicing
in front of a small group of people. It may be helpful to use a laser pointer to
draw attention to important points on your slides. For hints about how to use
a pointer effectively, see Box 19-2.
As with posters, steps can be taken to avoid disaster. For example, having
the presentation loaded on a flash drive can serve as a backup if needed. While
traveling, never put presentation materials into checked baggage; always keep
it on your person. Before presenting, it is wise to take advantage of the speaker
ready room to ensure that presentation slides are functioning. To reduce anxi-
ety, it may be helpful to observe other presentations that occur in the assigned
presentation room. This allows for observing lighting, podium, microphone,
and the slide management system (Wax et al., 2011).Use device sparingly.
Do not wave the beam around the screen or room.
Brace the pointer against the podium to minimize tremor.
Once the point is made, turn the laser off.
Provide your own pointer.
Bring spare batteries.BOX 19-2 Tips for Using Laser Pointers
500 CHAPTER 19 Sharing the Insights with Others