Effective Lectures: Speak Engagingly

It’s not usually the best idea to use lecture exclusively, but if you must do so, try to maximize your effectiveness as an engaging lecturer.

1. Be conversational.
Don’t lecture AT them, just talk WITH them. Don’t simply READ your presentation. If you can approximate the feel of a one-on-one conversation, students will pay much closer attention.

2. Use your voice effectively.
You should vary the speed, the loudness, and the tone of your voice. These variations can be used to great effect to signify important material.

3. Achieve eye contact with ALL parts of the room.
Consider dividing the room up into quadrants and vary where you direct your gaze. If possible, wander the aisles.

4. Come across as enthusiastic and energetic.
Allow your passion for the subject and for teaching to shine through (don’t be dull or routine). A study of effective presentations found these facets important in establishing believability: Verbal (words you say): 7%; Vocal (how you sound when you say them): 38%; Visual (how you look when you say them): 55%.

5. Gauge audience reaction and adjust accordingly.
Bored audiences can be brought back with voice variation and suddenly energetic presentations (see above). But you have to watch your audience to know when it’s time to shift gears. Repeat points as necessary.

6. Use boards effectively.
Write down important material that you want students to write in their own notes. Write legibly (not cursive) and in large font. Do not speak when facing away from the class.

7. Create pictures verbally.
Both visual and auditory learners benefit from a mental image, which enables you to hold attention longer. Or use real pictures.

8. Tell stories.
Students react particularly well to teachers who rely upon their own character and history to illustrate examples from the subject matter. Once boring material now seems relevant and accessible to them.

9. Tailor your style to appeal to this specific audience.
Undergraduates often react more enthusiastically to word problems or examples that use mass culture and pop culture references. Also, pack in as many similes, metaphors, and analogies as you can.

10. Demand involvement from students in their seats.
Problem-solving or brainstorming can occur individually; if possible, build the PowerPoint presentation AROUND these problems rather than vice-versa.