Course Description

This course is designed to improve women's public speaking skills and boost their confidence. It addresses common challenges faced by women speakers and utilises their unique qualities to their advantage. Starting with students who may feel nervous and inexperienced, the course aims to bring significant improvement by the end of the semester.

• Weeks 1–6: Focus on physical aspects (posture, gestures, voice projection).

• Weeks 7–11: Focus on crafting engaging content (storytelling, hooks).

• Weeks 12–15: Focus on visual aids and presentation software (PowerPoint design).

Classes

Introduction to Public Speaking

Students will learn about the fundamentals of public speaking, discover what elements contribute to a successful speech, and analyse examples of effective speakers.

Body: Posture, Hand Position

This class focuses on the importance of the 'neutral position' and authoritative posture. Students will learn how to use hand positioning to enhance their presence rather than detract from it.

Body: Gestures, Pauses

This session teaches students how to effectively incorporate purposeful hand gestures and use strategic silence (pauses) to create impact and allow the audience to process information.

Memorising Speeches

Students will learn specific techniques for memorising speeches, enabling them to deliver presentations naturally without relying heavily on notes or scripts.

Body: Voice Delivery, Eye Contact

The class focuses on improving voice delivery, tone, and establishing connection through sustained eye contact, which are crucial for engaging an audience.

PRESENTATION 1 (Body - 20%)

Students deliver a short speech (60–120 seconds) applying the physical skills learned in Weeks 1–5. 

Content: Using Stories, Phrasing

Practice: Be a tour guide for foreign guests.

This week focuses on the art of storytelling and phrasing. Students practice being a 'tour guide' for the audience to captivate and maintain interest throughout the speech.

Content: Make the Audience Care, Use Speaking Words

Students learn how to craft speeches that resonate with their specific audience, using clear 'speaking words' rather than complex 'writing words' to ensure the message is understood.

Content: Introduction

This session covers how to create compelling introductions. We analyse techniques used by successful YouTubers to 'hook' an audience immediately and make them want to listen.

Content: Main Speech, Conclusion

Students explore how to structure the main body of their speeches logically and craft effective conclusions that leave a lasting impression.

PRESENTATION 2 (Content - 30%)

Students deliver a short speech (60–120 seconds) applying the content creation skills learned in Weeks 7–10. 

Presentation Software: Design Principles

This session introduces the principles of effective slide design, teaching students how to avoid common mistakes and use visuals to support their message.

Presentation Software: Adding Content

Students learn how to add multimedia content (images, graphics) to their presentations effectively, while respecting copyright and sourcing requirements.

Presentation Software: Delivery

The class covers how to deliver a speech alongside presentation software, focusing on timing, synchronisation, and speaking with slides rather than reading from them.

This is followed by practice of Presentation 3 in front of the class by all students. 

Public Speaking on Social Media

This class introduces students to public speaking on social media. 

Public speaking on social media is slightly different to giving a live public speech because you have the opportunity to retake or edit your video. 

However, there are many other things to consider including the following: 

Introduction

What should I make videos about? 

What goals should I have? 

How to stay consistent?

How can I make my videos better?   

How should I plan and script my videos? 

Are data and analytics important?

When should you start outsourcing stuff?

Gaining confidence. 

PRESENTATION 3 (Slide Presentations - 30%)

Students submit their final slide presentation file (PowerPoint/PDF) based on the skills learned in Weeks 12–14. This serves as the final assessment for the course.

*** If you wish to practice your presentation delivery, you can volunteer to present in class during week 14 or at I-Space. Please note that there is a maximum time limit of 5 minutes for each presentation.

Feedback on the overall course performance and final comments will be provided.