Reflect on the Portfolio

Recall your oral presentation and think about these questions. If your Learning Coach recorded your presentation, watch the recording. Write your reflections in your journal.

Was your original research question a good jumping-off point for a research presentation? Did your research interest and appeal to your audience? How can you tell?
How easy or difficult was it to incorporate multimedia components or visual displays into your presentation? How do you think your audience felt about the visuals you included?
How did learning about keeping eye contact with your audience, adjusting tone and volume, using clear pronunciation, and using formal English help you feel more confident when you made your final presentation? Were you more nervous, or less, than you expected to be? Why do you think that is true?

1 answer

Reflection on the Portfolio Presentation

Research Question as a Jumping-Off Point: My original research question served as an effective starting point for my presentation. It was specific enough to provide a clear focus, yet broad enough to allow for exploration of various sub-topics. Through audience feedback and engagement during the Q&A segment, it seemed that my research resonated with them. For instance, several audience members asked follow-up questions which indicated their interest and investment in the topic.
Audience Engagement: I could tell my research was appealing to the audience based on their reactions and participation. The nods of understanding, quick responses to questions, and the number of inquiries during the discussion all suggested that the topic struck a chord. Additionally, using relatable examples helped to maintain their attention and make complex ideas more accessible.
Incorporating Multimedia Components: Incorporating multimedia was somewhat challenging, mainly due to the technical aspects of integrating slides and videos seamlessly into my presentation. However, once I practiced it a few times, it became more manageable. I noticed that the visuals helped clarify my points and maintained audience interest. The feedback I received indicated that the visuals enhanced their understanding and added an engaging layer to my presentation, which I believe positively influenced their overall experience.
Communication Techniques and Confidence: Learning about eye contact, tone, volume, pronunciation, and the use of formal English significantly bolstered my confidence. Knowing how to engage the audience effectively alleviated much of my fear of public speaking. Surprisingly, I was less nervous than I expected. I attribute this to the preparation I undertook and the practice sessions where I focused on these communication techniques. Understanding that I had a solid grasp on my material and was capable of effectively delivering it played a crucial role in calming my nerves.

In summary, my reflection on the portfolio presentation reveals that a well-structured research question can indeed foster audience interest, and while integrating multimedia components may pose some challenges, they can greatly enhance the overall impact of the presentation. The skills I learned about public speaking not only helped in delivery but also contributed to a much more enjoyable experience for both me and my audience.