Watch the following TedTalks video, where Nancy Durate discusses communication:
LinkLinks to an external site. (http://www.ted.com/talks/nancy_duarte_the_secret_structure_of_great_talksLinks to an external site.) (18 mins; cc)
IMPORTANT: You must FIRST create a post to reply to question 1 and question 2. After you have replied to question 1 and question 2, you will then be able to see your classmates' responses. You will then create a SECOND post to address question 3, where you respond to two of your classmates. Do not create a blank first post.
A. FIRST STEP - Create a post to reply to question 1 and question 2:
- Do you agree with Ms. Duarte's thoughts on a giving a presentation vs. telling a story? How about the "shape" she gives to a good speech? Why or why not?
- Do an online search for "Steve Jobs speech" and "Martin Luther King speech." What did you find? What can you learn about communication from this?
B. SECOND STEP - After you have posted your reply for question 1 and question 2, create two other posts to respond to your classmates on question 3:
- Read and reply to two other students' posts. Go beyond agreement. Add your insight and something new to their post, in reply to their comments on the video.
Full Answer Section
Presentations are typically used to convey factual information in a clear and concise way. They often follow a linear structure, with the speaker moving from one point to the next in a logical order. Presentations are often used in business settings, where the speaker is trying to persuade the audience to take a particular course of action.
Stories, on the other hand, are typically used to entertain or engage the audience. They often follow a more nonlinear structure, with the speaker jumping back and forth in time to tell the story in a way that is most effective. Stories are often used in personal settings, where the speaker is trying to connect with the audience on an emotional level.
Here are some of the key differences between giving a presentation and telling a story:
- Purpose: Presentations are typically used to convey factual information, while stories are typically used to entertain or engage the audience.
- Structure: Presentations often follow a linear structure, while stories often follow a more nonlinear structure.
- Audience: Presentations are often used in business settings, while stories are often used in personal settings.
- Skills: Presentations require skills such as public speaking, organization, and persuasion, while stories require skills such as storytelling, creativity, and empathy.
Here are some tips for giving a presentation:
- Know your audience: What do they already know about the topic? What do they need to know?
- Be clear and concise: Use simple language and avoid jargon.
- Use visuals: Charts, graphs, and images can help to illustrate your points.
- Practice your presentation: The more you practice, the more confident you will be.
Here are some tips for telling a story:
- Start with a strong hook: The first few sentences should grab the audience's attention.
- Use vivid language: Paint a picture with your words.
- Make your characters relatable: The audience should be able to connect with the characters on an emotional level.
- Build suspense: Keep the audience guessing what will happen next.
- Have a clear ending: The ending should tie up the loose ends and leave the audience feeling satisfied.
In the end, both presentations and stories can be effective ways to share information with an audience. The best way to choose which technique to use is to consider the purpose of your communication and the needs of your audience.