Public Speaking from edX

When asked, many people cite public speaking as one of their biggest fears. In fact, many renowned public speakers admit that they were once extremely anxious about speaking in front of groups.

Good public speaking is more than a performance. It is the result of:

Critical thinking
Well-organized narrative
Reasoning
Research
Preparation

In this course, part of the Communication Skills Professional Certificate program, you will study methods that help to reduce anxiety, build confidence, and customize a process that will result in successful speaking experiences.

This course is designed to equip you with knowledge of the principles necessary for formal public speaking with an emphasis on organization, evidence, language use, strategy, delivery, ethics, and effective use of media aids.

What you'll learn

How to apply the basic elements of the speech communication process
Tools and methods for controlling public speaking anxiety
How to craft a clear and impactful speech
How to critique other communicators using the principles of this course
How to identify main and supporting ideas

What's inside

Learning objectives

How to apply the basic elements of the speech communication process
Tools and methods for controlling public speaking anxiety
How to craft a clear and impactful speech

How to critique other communicators using the principles of this course
How to identify main and supporting ideas

How to apply the basic elements of the speech communication process
Tools and methods for controlling public speaking anxiety
How to craft a clear and impactful speech
How to critique other communicators using the principles of this course
How to identify main and supporting ideas

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Audience includes professionals giving speeches or presentations

Context and instructional design allow working professionals to engage with the material when they have time

Helps students turn complex and detailed information into clear and effective speeches

Explores core principles in public speaking

Instructor has extensive experience in communication and rhetoric

Develops fundamental skills in preparing and delivering speeches

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 Public Speaking with these activities:

Revisit previous public speaking experiences and analyze your strengths and weaknesses

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Gain valuable insights by reflecting on your past public speaking experiences to identify areas for improvement.

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Think about past public speaking experiences, both positive and negative.
Identify what went well and what could have been done better.
Consider your strengths and weaknesses as a public speaker.

Review pronunciation and articulation exercises

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Improve your clarity and delivery by reviewing and practicing pronunciation and articulation exercises.

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Find a list of pronunciation and articulation exercises online or in a speech therapy book.
Practice the exercises regularly, paying attention to your mouth movements and the sounds you produce.

Review 'Effective Public Speaking' by Dale Carnegie

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Build a strong understanding of the principles and techniques of public speaking by reading a comprehensive guide.

View Melania on Amazon

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Read the book thoroughly, taking notes and highlighting important passages.
Summarize each chapter in your own words.
Identify key takeaways and how they apply to your own public speaking skills.

Five other activities

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Follow online tutorials on speech organization and structure

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Acquire practical tips and techniques to effectively organize and structure your speeches for greater impact.

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Search for online tutorials or articles on speech organization and structure.
Follow the instructions and examples provided in the tutorials.
Apply the techniques learned to your own speech outlines.

Deliver a 3-minute speech to your peers

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Enhance your public speaking skills by practicing in a supportive environment and receiving feedback.

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Choose a topic of your choice and prepare a 3-minute speech.
Practice delivering your speech several times in front of a mirror or with a friend.
Deliver your speech to a small group of peers and actively seek their constructive feedback.

Attend a public speaking club or Toastmasters meeting

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Connect with a community of public speakers to observe and learn from others, receive feedback, and expand your network.

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Find a public speaking club or Toastmasters meeting in your area.
Attend a meeting and actively participate in the discussions and activities.
Prepare a speech to deliver at a future meeting.
Receive feedback and support from other members.

Create a video presentation on a topic related to public speaking

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Deepen your understanding and engagement with the course material by creating a video presentation that showcases your learning.

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Choose a topic related to public speaking that you want to explore further.
Research the topic and gather information from credible sources.
Create a script or outline for your video presentation.
Record and edit your video using a video recording and editing software.
Share your video presentation with others and gather feedback.

Volunteer as a speaker at a local event or organization

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Enhance your public speaking skills while giving back to your community by volunteering as a speaker at local events or organizations.

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Identify local events or organizations that are looking for speakers.
Prepare a speech on a topic that is relevant to the audience and the organization's mission.
Practice your speech thoroughly to ensure a confident and engaging delivery.
Deliver your speech at the event or organization and actively engage with the audience.
Reflect on your experience and identify areas for improvement.

Career center

Learners who complete Public Speaking will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Public relations manager

As a Public Relations Manager, you will be crafting persuasive messages, speeches, and presentations that shape public perception. This course will help equip you with the skills to develop clear, impactful, and well-organized speeches. You will also learn how to control public speaking anxiety, which can be a major barrier to success in this field.

See salaries and explore the career path for Public relations manager

Account Manager

Account Managers need to be able to clearly and concisely communicate with clients, both verbally and in writing. This course will help you develop the skills you need to deliver effective presentations, manage your time effectively, and build strong relationships with clients.

See salaries and explore the career path for Account Manager

Event Planner

As an Event Planner, you will be responsible for planning and executing a variety of events, from small meetings to large conferences. This course will help you develop the communication and organizational skills you need to succeed in this field. You will learn how to plan and deliver effective presentations, manage your time effectively, and work with a variety of vendors and clients.

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Marketing Manager

Marketing Managers are responsible for developing and executing marketing campaigns that reach target audiences and achieve business goals. This course will help you develop the communication and analytical skills you need to succeed in this field. You will learn how to plan and deliver effective presentations, manage your time effectively, and conduct market research.

See salaries and explore the career path for Marketing Manager

Sales Manager

Sales Managers are responsible for leading and motivating sales teams to achieve sales goals. This course will help you develop the communication and leadership skills you need to succeed in this field. You will learn how to plan and deliver effective presentations, manage your time effectively, and build strong relationships with clients.

See salaries and explore the career path for Sales Manager

Teacher

Teachers need to be able to communicate effectively with students, parents, and colleagues. This course will help you develop the skills you need to deliver effective presentations, manage your time effectively, and create a positive learning environment.

See salaries and explore the career path for Teacher

Lawyer

Lawyers need to be able to communicate effectively with clients, judges, and juries. This course will help you develop the skills you need to deliver effective presentations, manage your time effectively, and conduct legal research.

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Politician

Politicians need to be able to communicate effectively with constituents, the media, and other stakeholders. This course will help you develop the skills you need to deliver effective speeches, manage your time effectively, and build strong relationships with voters.

See salaries and explore the career path for Politician

Journalist

Journalists need to be able to communicate effectively with sources, editors, and readers. This course will help you develop the skills you need to write clear, concise, and accurate news stories and articles.

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Software Engineer

Software Engineers need to be able to communicate effectively with colleagues and clients to understand requirements and design and develop software. This course will help you develop the skills you need to deliver effective presentations, manage your time effectively, and work with a variety of stakeholders.

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Web Developer

Web Developers need to be able to communicate effectively with clients and colleagues to understand requirements and design and develop websites. This course will help you develop the skills you need to deliver effective presentations, manage your time effectively, and work with a variety of stakeholders.

See salaries and explore the career path for Web Developer

Customer Service Representative

Customer Service Representatives need to be able to communicate effectively with customers to resolve issues and provide support. This course will help you develop the skills you need to deliver effective presentations, manage your time effectively, and build strong relationships with customers.

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Technical Writer

Technical Writers need to be able to communicate complex technical information clearly and concisely. This course will help you develop the skills you need to write clear, concise, and accurate technical documentation.

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Financial Analyst

Financial Analysts need to be able to communicate effectively with clients and colleagues to present financial data and analysis. This course will help you develop the skills you need to deliver effective presentations, manage your time effectively, and work with a variety of stakeholders.

See salaries and explore the career path for Financial Analyst

Data Analyst

Data Analysts need to be able to communicate effectively with stakeholders to present findings and insights. This course will help you develop the skills you need to deliver effective presentations, manage your time effectively, and work with a variety of stakeholders.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Analyst