6. PowerPoint

There are many ways to design and deliver a presentation using the PowerPoint program. The following is some learned advice in creating an overall beneficial presentation:

When creating a new presentation, characteristics, such as backgrounds, can really compliment the material being portrayed. When using a background, a darker one in combination with light text is generally the most visually appealing. The use of only two fonts are recommended and it is highly advised to keep text to a minimum length: content is King. This text should support the presentation, however, the presenter should expand on the key points listed. The presenter should also not capitalize everything but fonts should rather be big enough in size to easily be read. Text should always be on the left, graphics on the right, and data conveyed graphically. There should only be one style of backgrounds, graphics, color schemes, and animations. Art chosen in PowerPoint presentations should also be that of a lighthearted nature- a slightly cheesy illustration of the information.

The PowerPoint presentation program provides many creative and useful ways to reveal the information. Some of these little quirks include: bells and whistles, slide animation, and texts dimmed. However, these should also be kept both consistent and to a minimum- used to enhance rather than distract. When completed, the presentation should be put on either a flash drive, network drive, Google docs, or a CD. The use of several of these devices is recommended in case of a need for a back-up plan. The presenter should arrive early to be prepared for both this type of occurrence as well as to be able to test equipment, such as the network and Internet access, projector, and sound deivecs. It is also advised that when delivering the information the presenter not hide behind the computer but rather have an alternative clicker or access to a remote control.

PowerPoint, when used correctly, is a very beneficial program in presenting information. I would very much recommend its use both in and out of the classroom.