Reflection on Oral Presentation

Preparation

In preparation of the presentation, we prepared our speech individually and our group met only on the day of the oral presentation dry run and the actual day to rehearse. We could have met more frequently to practise the presentation together, so that we would be more familiar with each member’s script. In addition, we should have allocated more time to evaluate and make changes to each other’s script. During the rehearsal, there was a lack of opportunity to evaluate our gestures. This is important as we would be able to make corrections and not repeat them during the presentation. Appropriate gestures should be adopted so as to engage the audience effectively. Our facial expression was also not evaluated as well. Thus, we were not aware of the facial expression that we were giving to the audience. This could lead to an ineffective presentation.

However, during the rehearsal, we practised more than two times to ensure that our presentation was smooth. Individual preparation was also done adequately. I did many individual rehearsals prior to the final rehearsal. Also, I timed my speech to ensure that my presentation was not too long as compared to other presenters. During the dry-run, I was given feedback that my speech was too long and hence, I tried to cut down on the details to make the speech concise.

Delivery

During the actual presentation, I was too tense at the beginning and stumbled at the second slide of my part. In fact, during the practice, I found that phrasing my speech for the second slide was a difficulty. This could also be the reason why I was not able to present smoothly during the presentation. I also felt that my presentation was not enthusiastic enough to convince the audience that there were a lot of benefits gained from implementing rooftop gardens on HDB buildings and carparks. Due to my nervousness, I was unable to bring out my personality during the presentation. If I had done so, I would be able to sound more passionate and enthusiastic about this project.

Despite my nervousness, I was able to engage the audience by attempting to look at every audience. At the middle of my presentationm, I managed to regain my cheerfulness and confidence, and I sounded more passionate for this project. I believe that being passionate and enthusiastic for this project was important in the delivery of this presentation, as it would be able to convince the audience that this proposal would be feasible.

Use of slideware or other audiovisuals                           

In our presentation, there was sufficient animation and transition of slides. Pictures were also included to illustrate the ideas we were conveying on almost every slide. This made our presentation more appealing and effective. Nonetheless, we could have included videos to make the presentation a more engaging experience for the audience.