Using Powerpoints

• Programs such as PowerPoint, Keynote, LibreOffice and Prezi help teachers to emphasize important points and use visuals in their lessons. Their use is an art well-worth mastering.
• If you need training in the mechanics of using presentation software, go to the library and get one of those “for dummies” books. The Complete Idiot’s Guide to PowerPoint is one such example. Training videos can be found online as well.
• Remember that efforts to attract attention too easily distract attention. While most presentation software gives you the ability to add flashing, buzzing, excessive color, and movement, don’t overuse these features.
• Presentations should focus the audience’s attention on each piece of information. Rather than cramming as much as you can onto every slide, devote each slide to a single idea, and remove everything that might distract from that idea.
• Font size should be at least 28 pt. If the text is too small to read, it loses all value.
• Avoid slides filled with too much text. The words on the screen should emphasize what you’re talking about, not be a replacement for or exact copy of the words you’re saying.
• The following websites offer more practical tips on how to create effective visual presentations:
  • 10 PowerPoint Tips for Preparing a Professional Presentation
  • 10 tips for better slide decks | TED Blog

Sources

• There Isn’t Any Power If It Doesn’t Have a Point - The Dock for Learning