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Dr. Matt McGarrity
This course offers a proven framework for crafting and delivering impactful presentations.
In the professional world, academic settings, or public life, we're frequently asked to "share some thoughts." Many individuals struggle in these situations. This course aims to make you excel where others stumble.
Read more
This course offers a proven framework for crafting and delivering impactful presentations.
In the professional world, academic settings, or public life, we're frequently asked to "share some thoughts." Many individuals struggle in these situations. This course aims to make you excel where others stumble.
Read more
This course offers a proven framework for crafting and delivering impactful presentations.
In the professional world, academic settings, or public life, we're frequently asked to "share some thoughts." Many individuals struggle in these situations. This course aims to make you excel where others stumble.
We'll explore how to structure speeches coherently, write memorably, and present confidently. Upon completion, you will diminish your public speaking anxiety, leverage rehearsal methods to develop a robust, engaging speaking voice, and execute speeches with dynamic movements. The speech model we'll practice is versatile for briefings, elevator pitches, interviews, and even as a blueprint for hour-long presentations.
Whether you're a novice or an experienced speaker, this course will help you master speaking fundamentals or elevate your public speaking skills to new heights.
As a bonus, you'll gain access to an immersive VR experience that lets you perfect your presentation skills in a simulated auditorium or conference room, complete with a virtual audience. You will receive real-time feedback, empowering you to refine your abilities through practice in a realistic setting.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/2wn8d7/introduction
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What's inside
Syllabus
Week 1: Understanding speech
Thank you for joining Introduction to Public Speaking! I am thrilled at the prospect of a global discussion about good speech. Let's get started! In this module, we’ll focus on the basics of the course and how rhetorical canons will help us structure our time. Then we’ll turn to the important ways that speaking and writing differ. By the end of this week, you should have some tools for evaluating your speech writing. If you want some feedback, you’ll be able to upload an introductory speech for peer review.
Read more
Syllabus
Week 1: Understanding speech
Thank you for joining Introduction to Public Speaking! I am thrilled at the prospect of a global discussion about good speech. Let's get started! In this module, we’ll focus on the basics of the course and how rhetorical canons will help us structure our time. Then we’ll turn to the important ways that speaking and writing differ. By the end of this week, you should have some tools for evaluating your speech writing. If you want some feedback, you’ll be able to upload an introductory speech for peer review.
Read more
Traffic lights
Traffic lights
Read about what's good
what should give you pause and
possible dealbreakers
Teaches a model for the structure of speeches that is relevant across a variety of speaking scenarios
Provides an immersive experience like a simulated auditorium or conference room to practice speech delivery
Structured into clear and concise modules that teach the fundamentals of public speaking
Taught by Dr. Matt McGarrity, this course offers insights from an experienced instructor
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Reviews summary
Effective introduction to public speaking fundamentals
According to learners, this course offers a clear and practical introduction to public speaking. Many students found the content highly helpful for building confidence and reducing anxiety. The course structure, which progresses from understanding speech to delivery and overcoming fear, is widely praised for its logical flow. Key aspects frequently highlighted include the practical tips for structuring speeches and the focus on delivery techniques. While the course is seen as particularly beneficial for beginners seeking a solid foundation, some more experienced speakers felt the content was too basic. The peer review process received mixed feedback, noted as sometimes inconsistent. Overall, reviews indicate a largely positive experience for those looking to master public speaking fundamentals.
Useful practice tool.
"The VR practice tool was a unique and helpful way to rehearse in a simulated environment."
"Practicing in VR gave me a feel for presenting to an audience before doing it live."
"I liked the VR bonus feature for realistic rehearsal, although accessing it was tricky for some."
Excellent starting point for novices.
"As someone completely new to public speaking, this course was the perfect entry point."
"If you're a beginner, this course lays a fantastic foundation."
"I had no prior experience, and I felt this course equipped me well with the basics I needed."
Logical flow and practical techniques.
"The way the course is structured, building up week by week, made it easy to follow and absorb the material."
"I appreciated the practical focus and clear examples provided throughout the modules."
"The model for structuring speeches is incredibly versatile and easy to apply immediately."
Helped many overcome speaking anxiety.
"This course really helped me tackle my fear of public speaking head-on and gave me actionable steps."
"I feel much more confident now when I have to give a presentation after completing this."
"It significantly reduced my public speaking anxiety with practical techniques and mindset shifts."
May not challenge advanced learners.
"While good for fundamentals, I found much of the content repetitive as an experienced speaker."
"If you already have some public speaking background, this might be too basic for you."
"I was hoping for more advanced techniques, but it really stuck to introductory concepts."
Quality varies depending on peers.
"The peer feedback varied greatly in quality and helpfulness, which was a bit frustrating."
"Sometimes the reviews I received weren't very constructive or detailed."
"Reliance on peer review means the experience can be inconsistent."
Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Introduction to Public Speaking with these
activities:
Read 'Rhetoric' by Aristotle
Show steps
Lay a strong theoretical foundation by exploring Aristotle's seminal work on rhetoric, gaining insights into the principles of effective communication and persuasion.
Show steps
-
Obtain a copy of 'Rhetoric' by Aristotle
-
Read and understand the core concepts of rhetoric
-
Apply the principles to your own public speaking
Compile a List of Effective Speech Openers
Show steps
Curate a collection of impactful speech introductions for inspiration.
Browse courses on
Public Speaking
Show steps
-
Research and identify different speech opening techniques.
-
Create a list of your favorite examples.
Explore online tutorials on speech delivery
Show steps
Supplement your learning by seeking out online tutorials that provide practical tips and techniques for enhancing your speech delivery.
Show steps
-
Search for online tutorials on speech delivery
-
Identify tutorials that align with your learning needs
-
Follow the instructions and practice the techniques
Ten other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all 13 activities
Read 'Slideology: The Art and Science of Creating Great Presentations'
Show steps
Review key concepts from the foundational text on presentation design.
View
Illuminate: Ignite Change Through Speeches,...
on Amazon
Show steps
-
Read Chapters 1-3 to understand the principles of slide design.
-
Identify three key takeaways from the book.
Join a public speaking club
Show steps
Enhance your public speaking skills by joining a club that provides a supportive environment to practice, receive feedback, and learn from others' experiences.
Show steps
-
Research and identify public speaking clubs in your area
-
Attend meetings and actively participate in activities
-
Prepare and deliver speeches for constructive criticism
-
Provide feedback and support to other members
Participate in Peer Feedback Sessions
Show steps
Receive constructive criticism and improve your presentation abilities.
Browse courses on
Peer Feedback
Show steps
-
Present your draft presentation to peers.
-
Actively listen to feedback and take notes.
Rehearse speeches in front of a mirror
Show steps
Enhance your delivery by practicing and refining your speech in front of a mirror to observe your body language and make adjustments as needed.
Show steps
-
Choose a speech to practice
-
Stand in front of a mirror and deliver the speech
-
Observe your body language and make adjustments
-
Repeat the process until satisfied with your delivery
Craft a 3-minute Elevator Pitch
Show steps
Condense your key message into a concise and engaging elevator pitch.
Browse courses on
Elevator Pitch
Show steps
-
Identify the main points of your presentation.
-
Practice delivering your pitch within the time limit.
-
Seek feedback from peers or a mentor.
Attend a public speaking workshop
Show steps
Enhance your public speaking skills by attending a workshop led by experienced professionals, offering practical guidance and feedback.
Show steps
-
Research and identify relevant public speaking workshops
-
Register and attend the workshop
-
Actively participate in exercises and discussions
-
Apply the techniques learned in your own presentations
Record and critique your speeches
Show steps
Improve your delivery and identify areas for improvement by recording and critiquing your speeches, paying attention to your pacing, vocal variety, and gestures.
Show steps
-
Record a practice speech using a video recorder or audio recorder
-
Review the recording and identify strengths and weaknesses
-
Focus on improving your pacing, vocal variety, and gestures
-
Practice and record additional speeches
Practice Delivery in Front of a Mirror
Show steps
Gain confidence and improve non-verbal communication through self-observation.
Browse courses on
Delivery
Show steps
-
Practice delivering your presentation multiple times.
-
Pay attention to your body language and voice projection.
Create a presentation for a specific audience
Show steps
Apply your understanding of audience analysis and presentation design by crafting a presentation tailored to a specific audience, considering their interests, knowledge level, and communication preferences.
Show steps
-
Identify the target audience and their characteristics
-
Develop a topic and outline for the presentation
-
Create visual aids and supporting materials
-
Practice delivering the presentation
-
Present to the intended audience
Create a presentation for a fictional audience
Show steps
Solidify your understanding of presentation principles by crafting a presentation tailored to a specific audience, considering their interests, needs, and background.
Show steps
-
Identify the fictional audience and their characteristics
-
Develop a topic and outline for the presentation
-
Create visual aids and supporting materials
-
Practice delivering the presentation
-
Share the presentation for feedback
Read 'Rhetoric' by Aristotle
Show steps
Lay a strong theoretical foundation by exploring Aristotle's seminal work on rhetoric, gaining insights into the principles of effective communication and persuasion.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Obtain a copy of 'Rhetoric' by Aristotle
- Read and understand the core concepts of rhetoric
- Apply the principles to your own public speaking
Compile a List of Effective Speech Openers
Show steps
Curate a collection of impactful speech introductions for inspiration.
Browse courses on
Public Speaking
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research and identify different speech opening techniques.
- Create a list of your favorite examples.
Explore online tutorials on speech delivery
Show steps
Supplement your learning by seeking out online tutorials that provide practical tips and techniques for enhancing your speech delivery.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Search for online tutorials on speech delivery
- Identify tutorials that align with your learning needs
- Follow the instructions and practice the techniques
Ten other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all 13 activities
Read 'Slideology: The Art and Science of Creating Great Presentations'
Show steps
Review key concepts from the foundational text on presentation design.
View
Illuminate: Ignite Change Through Speeches,...
on Amazon
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Read Chapters 1-3 to understand the principles of slide design.
- Identify three key takeaways from the book.
Join a public speaking club
Show steps
Enhance your public speaking skills by joining a club that provides a supportive environment to practice, receive feedback, and learn from others' experiences.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research and identify public speaking clubs in your area
- Attend meetings and actively participate in activities
- Prepare and deliver speeches for constructive criticism
- Provide feedback and support to other members
Participate in Peer Feedback Sessions
Show steps
Receive constructive criticism and improve your presentation abilities.
Browse courses on
Peer Feedback
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Present your draft presentation to peers.
- Actively listen to feedback and take notes.
Rehearse speeches in front of a mirror
Show steps
Enhance your delivery by practicing and refining your speech in front of a mirror to observe your body language and make adjustments as needed.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Choose a speech to practice
- Stand in front of a mirror and deliver the speech
- Observe your body language and make adjustments
- Repeat the process until satisfied with your delivery
Craft a 3-minute Elevator Pitch
Show steps
Condense your key message into a concise and engaging elevator pitch.
Browse courses on
Elevator Pitch
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify the main points of your presentation.
- Practice delivering your pitch within the time limit.
- Seek feedback from peers or a mentor.
Attend a public speaking workshop
Show steps
Enhance your public speaking skills by attending a workshop led by experienced professionals, offering practical guidance and feedback.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research and identify relevant public speaking workshops
- Register and attend the workshop
- Actively participate in exercises and discussions
- Apply the techniques learned in your own presentations
Record and critique your speeches
Show steps
Improve your delivery and identify areas for improvement by recording and critiquing your speeches, paying attention to your pacing, vocal variety, and gestures.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Record a practice speech using a video recorder or audio recorder
- Review the recording and identify strengths and weaknesses
- Focus on improving your pacing, vocal variety, and gestures
- Practice and record additional speeches
Practice Delivery in Front of a Mirror
Show steps
Gain confidence and improve non-verbal communication through self-observation.
Browse courses on
Delivery
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Practice delivering your presentation multiple times.
- Pay attention to your body language and voice projection.
Create a presentation for a specific audience
Show steps
Apply your understanding of audience analysis and presentation design by crafting a presentation tailored to a specific audience, considering their interests, knowledge level, and communication preferences.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify the target audience and their characteristics
- Develop a topic and outline for the presentation
- Create visual aids and supporting materials
- Practice delivering the presentation
- Present to the intended audience
Create a presentation for a fictional audience
Show steps
Solidify your understanding of presentation principles by crafting a presentation tailored to a specific audience, considering their interests, needs, and background.
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify the fictional audience and their characteristics
- Develop a topic and outline for the presentation
- Create visual aids and supporting materials
- Practice delivering the presentation
- Share the presentation for feedback
Career center
Learners who complete Introduction to Public Speaking will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Speechwriter
Speechwriter
Speechwriters can benefit from the course's focus on crafting and delivering impactful presentations. They are responsible for writing speeches for public figures. Refining public speaking skills can help Speechwriters understand the needs of their audience and write speeches that are both informative and engaging. This course also covers how to research and organize a speech, which can be especially helpful for those who need to write speeches on a variety of topics.
Politician
Politician
Politicians can benefit from the course's focus on crafting and delivering impactful presentations. They are responsible for communicating their policies and vision to the public. Refining public speaking skills can help Politicians connect with voters and persuade them to support their campaigns. This course also covers how to handle media interviews and other public speaking situations, which can be especially helpful for those who need to represent themselves in the public eye.
Lawyer
Lawyer
Lawyers can benefit from the course's focus on crafting and delivering impactful presentations. They are responsible for representing their clients in court and other legal proceedings. Refining public speaking skills can help Lawyers communicate their arguments more effectively and persuade judges and juries. This course also covers how to handle cross-examination and other adversarial situations, which can be especially helpful for those who need to defend their clients in court.
Doctor
Doctor
Doctors can benefit from the course's focus on crafting and delivering impactful presentations. They are responsible for communicating with patients and other healthcare professionals about medical conditions and treatments. Refining public speaking skills can help Doctors explain complex medical information in a clear and concise way and build rapport with patients. This course also covers how to handle difficult conversations and provide support to patients and their families.
Scientist
Scientist
Scientists can benefit from the course's focus on crafting and delivering impactful presentations. They are responsible for communicating their research findings to other scientists, policymakers, and the public. Refining public speaking skills can help Scientists explain complex scientific concepts in a clear and engaging way and persuade others to support their research. This course also covers how to use visual aids and other tools to enhance presentations, which can be especially helpful for those who need to present complex data.
Teacher
Teacher
Teachers can benefit from the course's focus on crafting and delivering impactful presentations. They are responsible for educating and inspiring students. Refining public speaking skills can help Teachers communicate their lessons more effectively and engage their students. This course also covers how to use technology in the classroom, which can be especially helpful for those who want to incorporate more interactive and engaging elements into their teaching.
Trainer
Trainer
Trainers can benefit from the course's focus on crafting and delivering impactful presentations. They are responsible for developing and delivering training programs. Refining public speaking skills can help Trainers communicate their material more effectively and engage their audience. This course also covers how to use interactive exercises and activities, which can be especially helpful for those who want to make their training programs more engaging and memorable.
Sales Executive
Sales Executive
Sales Executives will benefit from the proven framework this course provides for crafting and delivering impactful presentations. They must be able to communicate persuasively and build rapport with potential customers, so refining public speaking skills can help them close more deals. This course can help Sales Executives overcome their fear of public speaking and develop greater confidence in their delivery. The immersive VR experience can provide a valuable opportunity to practice presentation skills in a realistic setting, which can be especially helpful for those who may experience anxiety when speaking in front of others.
Community Organizer
Community Organizer
Community Organizers can benefit from the course's focus on crafting and delivering impactful presentations. They are responsible for mobilizing people to take action on issues that affect their community. Refining public speaking skills can help Community Organizers communicate their message more effectively and inspire others to get involved.
Nonprofit Manager
Nonprofit Manager
Nonprofit Managers can benefit from the course's focus on crafting and delivering impactful presentations. They are responsible for leading and managing nonprofit organizations. Refining public speaking skills can help Nonprofit Managers communicate their mission and vision more effectively and persuade others to support their cause. This course also covers how to build relationships with donors and other stakeholders, which can be especially helpful for those who need to raise funds and build support for their organization.
Event Planner
Event Planner
Event Planners can benefit from the course's focus on crafting and delivering impactful presentations. They are responsible for planning and executing events. Refining public speaking skills can help Event Planners communicate their vision for an event more effectively and persuade others to attend. This course also covers how to manage vendors and other partners, which can be especially helpful for those who need to coordinate large-scale events.
Marketing Manager
Marketing Manager
Marketing Managers can benefit from the course's focus on crafting and delivering impactful presentations. They are responsible for developing and executing marketing campaigns, which often involve giving presentations to various audiences. Refining public speaking skills can help Marketing Managers communicate their ideas more effectively and persuade others to take action. This course also covers how to use visuals and other aids to enhance presentations, which can be especially helpful for those who need to present complex information in a clear and engaging way.
Public Relations Specialist
Public Relations Specialist
Public Relations Specialists can benefit from the course's focus on crafting and delivering impactful presentations. They are responsible for managing the public image of organizations and communicating with the media. Refining public speaking skills can help Public Relations Specialists communicate their messages more effectively and build stronger relationships with key stakeholders. This course also covers how to handle media interviews and other public speaking situations, which can be especially helpful for those who need to represent their organization in the public eye.
Business Development Manager
Business Development Manager
Business Development Managers can benefit from the course's focus on crafting and delivering impactful presentations. They are responsible for generating new business leads and developing partnerships with other organizations. Refining public speaking skills can help Business Development Managers communicate their value proposition more effectively and persuade others to do business with them. This course also covers how to negotiate and close deals, which can be especially helpful for those who need to secure new clients or partners.
Consultant
Consultant
Consultants can benefit from the course's focus on crafting and delivering impactful presentations. They are responsible for providing expert advice and guidance to clients. Refining public speaking skills can help Consultants communicate their findings and recommendations more effectively and persuade clients to take action. This course also covers how to manage difficult clients and stakeholders, which can be especially helpful for those who need to work with a variety of different people.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/2wn8d7/introduction
Reading list
We've selected ten books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Introduction to Public Speaking.
A practical guide for improving presentation skills. Includes tips on structuring speeches, creating visuals, and managing nerves.
A collection of insights from TED speakers. Provides advice on storytelling, humor, and using visuals to make presentations more engaging.
A guide to creating effective presentation slides. Provides advice on visual design, layout, and storytelling.
A classic guide to public speaking from the renowned author and speaker. Provides practical advice on preparation, delivery, and handling nerves.
Save
A comprehensive text on public speaking theory and practice. Provides a historical overview, discusses different types of speeches, and offers guidance on research, preparation, and delivery.
Save
A practical guide for business professionals who need to improve their public speaking skills.
A textbook that provides a comprehensive overview of public speaking. Includes chapters on speech preparation, delivery, and evaluation.
A beginner-friendly guide to the fundamentals of public speaking.
A comprehensive guide to the entire presentation process. Provides practical advice on everything from preparation to follow-up.
Save
A guide to using storytelling techniques to make presentations more engaging and memorable.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/2wn8d7/introduction
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Effort
5 weeks of study; 2 hours per week.
Level
Introductory
Via
Coursera
Institution
University of Washington
Instructor
Dr. Matt McGarrity
Language
English
Transcripts
Español
Français
Português
Deutsch
Italiano
中文
العربية
한국어
日本語
हिंदी
Nederlands
Svenska
Pусский
Türkçe
Polski
Ελληνικά
українська мова
magyar nyelv
Bahasa Indonesia
ไทย
қазақша
اُردُو,
فارسی
বাংলা
tiếng Việt
پښتو
آذربایجان دیلی
This course belongs to a
collection
called
Dynamic Public Speaking. It's comprised of four courses:
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