Groupwork and presentations module

Groupwork and presentations focuses on developing interpersonal skills that will help group projects to run smoothly, examining how to be an effective group member as well as how to plan and deliver a successful presentation.

Sample activity: Gather tips on how to prepare and practise presentations

Illustration of person with lightbulb and media graphics

Know your stuff

Think about the last time you talked about something with real confidence. You probably looked and sounded so comfortable because you knew the subject and were familiar with the points you wanted to make.

The same feelings will help you to give a brilliant presentation: preparation and practice are the keys to success.

Graphic with cog and pencil

Support each other

Thorough preparation is vital if you are giving a group presentation because it can help members of the group to develop confidence in each other.

Click through the three slides below for more information and tips on preparation and practice.

Prepare
  • Getting the information across is your priority – make sure that your material is well structured and accurate
  • Prepare only as much material as you can deliver at a reasonable pace
  • Divide the material into essential points and extra material to cover only if you have time
  • Prepare a strong closing summary
Practice
  • Time yourself speaking at a reasonable pace, with pauses. Practise this several times to get an accurate idea of how long your presentation is
  • If your presentation is too long, don’t speak quickly to squeeze more information in: edit and remove the least relevant material
  • Rehearsals allow you to try different styles of presentation. For example, you might try an interview, debate, or panel format for a group presentation
Use the postcard technique

The postcard technique is an easy way to structure your presentation and it will also help you to feel confident about what you have to say.

  1. Break your talk into sections, one per card
  2. Give each section a heading
  3. Write one heading and a few easily-read prompt words onto each card
  4. Number the cards in the order that you want to introduce those points

Module content

Groupwork and Presentations features the following:

  • Diagnostic test
  • Section 1: Working with others
  • Section 2: Presentation skills
  • Module assessment

See what’s in each section below:

  • Situations and benefits
  • Ways of working with others
  • Key strategies: listening skills, making your point, dealing with difficult moments
  • Helping the group to work
  • Skills self-assessment
  • Your potential as a presenter
  • Know your audience
  • Practice and preparation
  • Overcoming nerves
  • Learn from other students
Exam skills
Confidence with numbers

Gather tips on how to prepare and practise presentations

 

Know your stuff

Think about the last time you talked about something with real confidence. You probably looked and sounded so comfortable because you knew the subject and were familiar with the points you wanted to make. The same feelings will help you to give a brilliant presentation: preparation and practice are the keys to success.

 

Support each other

Thorough preparation is vital if you are giving a group presentation because it can help members of the group to develop confidence in each other.

Read below for more information and tips on preparation and practice.

 

Prepare

  • Getting the information across is your priority – make sure that your material is well structured and accurate
  • Prepare only as much material as you can deliver at a reasonable pace
  • Divide the material into essential points and extra material to cover only if you have time
  • Prepare a strong closing summary

 

Practice

  • Time yourself speaking at a reasonable pace, with pauses. Practise this several times to get an accurate idea of how long your presentation is
  • If your presentation is too long, don’t speak quickly to squeeze more information in: edit and remove the least relevant material
  • Rehearsals allow you to try different styles of presentation. For example, you might try an interview, debate, or panel format for a group presentation

 

Use the postcard technique

The postcard technique is an easy way to structure your presentation and it will also help you to feel confident about what you have to say.

  • Break your talk into sections, one per card
  • Give each section a heading
  • Write one heading and a few easily-read prompt words onto each card
  • Number the cards in the order that you want to introduce those points
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