Presentation Skills for Scientists and Engineers

2 units

Effective technical presentations require a complex set of skills. In this course, the presentation development process will be emphasized, and students will focus on elements such as structure, organization of content, diction, visuals, delivery, and audience interaction. Class members will learn the assertion-evidence method of slide development, which emphasizes key messages and visual information, rather than traditional bullet points. To help students gain confidence, the class will begin with improvisational exercises, and over the course of the semester, each student will deliver at least three speeches, each with a different purpose. Through ongoing analysis and discussion of video presentations, guest speakers' talks, and their classmates' presentations - and through routine practice, peer feedback, and self-reflection, students will continue to strengthen their skills. Although the primary focus will be on technical topics for non-specialists, in one segment of the course, students will learn methods and strategies for leading effective problem-solving sessions.