Chapter 8: Part 2 – Types of Presentation Aids

As a visual learner I depend on visual aids for effective learning. But presentation aids such as participant guides, Power Points, chalk boards and video do not only benefit this type of learner, but also promote interest, clarify, demonstrate and enhance retention and training transfer within all learning styles. Since we have already covered the purposes and strategies for using presentation aids, let’s discuss the types of presentation aids a trainer can utilize to increase the effectiveness of his or her presentation. This section will also cover the advantages and disadvantages of these tools and how to prevent excessive use. Participant guides can be extremely helpful during training, as they allow the trainee to follow along with the training content and to take notes of pertinent information. Furthermore, a handout can be quite useful when problems with technological devices occur. A great disadvantage of handouts is the cost associated with printing the materials. The text suggests that the preparation and implementation of handouts should be guided by three essential principles. 1.) Make sure handouts are error free 2.) Do not distribute handouts while you are speaking 3.) Let trainees know when to reference handouts. Dry-Erase boards are another visual aid available to the trainer. This aid is especially useful when technological devices are not available. Personally, I have found a few disadvantages of dry erase boards in the past. I have noticed that it can be very time consuming to write material on a board that could have been prepared on another visual aid prior to the training. I also found handwriting to be another obstacle that a presenter has to overcome with this type of visual aid. The book mentions a few other downfalls with dry-erase boards such as transportation of the board and the inability to prepare graphics beforehand. But Dry-Erase boards also have great advantages. Not only are they easy to use, but help in brainstorming sessions and generated ideas can be immediately presented. Furthermore, a Dry-Erase board can double as a projection screen as well. Document Cameras are another presentation device a trainer can use. Printed text and handwritten content are an ideal media to present with a document camera. A challenge I have encountered with this device is the size of the print and lighting. However, document cameras can be used for collecting ideas, presenting data or to highlight passages within printed text. Videos can be another powerful way to present training content. This type of media does not only stimulate the viewer’s senses but grabs the attention of the audience more than any other presentation device. The text suggests several strategies concerning the use of video in training. 1.) Determine your relationship as a trainer with the video, 2.) Use brief clips 3.) Provide an introduction or context, 4.)cue up your clip and 5. ) Apply and discuss the video clip. The Internet can also be an excellent choice for training presentations. Whether it is a youtube video, a website or other content, the internet is perfect for presenting up-to date information. However, the trainer should always choose credible sources and verify the validity of the information. Power Point Presentations are among the most used Presentation Aids today. The endless design options and content selections such as graphics, pictures, sounds and video clips make this type of presentation aid an essential part of training. We will discuss the principles for using Power Points and tips on designing them during our class discussion. We will also discuss the content of the article “Ten Sins of Power Point.” You can access this article at the following link. http://www.utexas.edu/lbj/21cp/syllabus/powerpoint_tips.htm Claudia Richardson