Presenting as a subject specialist

What have we got here?

Presenting as a subject specialist is a self-paced, online course that you can start, finish or just dip into at any time. It's one of a growing catalogue of Skills Journey courses for learning professionals. You can buy this course on its own or subscribe to the whole catalogue.

Is this course right for me?

The course is aimed at anyone with a responsibility for presenting within the context of a group learning experience, whether in the classroom or online. The course is also suitable for those whose responsibilities are primarily for instructing or facilitating a group, who are looking to incorporate presentations within their sessions.

What will I learn?

This course will enable you to:

• distinguish between presentation, facilitation and instruction;
• recognise opportunities for delivering a presentation as a subject specialist;
• clarify the goals for your presentation, the characteristics of your target audience and the constraints you are working within;
• edit down your material so as not to overload your audience;
• structure your presentation;
• engage your audience;
• hold the attention of your audience;
• deliver your content clearly and memorably;
• make effective use of visual aids;
• handle questions effectively;
• increase engagement by asking questions;
• encourage participants to act upon the information they have gained.

How long will it take?

Well, it all depends.

• If you’re curious about something or you need to know urgently how to carry out a task, you could get in, get what you want and get out again in less than 10 minutes.
• If what you need is a quick appreciation of the subject matter covered by the course, you could watch all the lesson videos in an hour, give or take. You’d be better off spreading this over a few days, but if an hour is all you’ve got, then go ahead and binge.
• Our courses are roughly equivalent in scope to a one or two day classroom event. If you were to spend a whole day on one of our courses, perhaps spread over a week or two, you’d be able to complete all the activities and begin applying your new skills to your work.

How does it all work?

The course is comprised of nine lessons, each of which includes a short video, in many cases incorporating dramatised demonstrations of facilitation in action. Many of the lessons also incorporate optional activities to help you build your skills and confidence. You will also be provided with resources that you can use for on-going reference, including a short handbook and an infographic. Throughout the course you will opportunities to engage with others taking the course.

If you complete the course, you will receive a Skills Journey certificate. Optionally, you can complete an assignment to help you put what you have learned into practice and demonstrate your skills to others.

Download the course info sheet.