Presentation Method: Indispensable in Imparting Knowledge in Educational Institutions at all Levels Dr. Radhika Kapur Abstract Presentation method is the method that is regarded as worthwhile and efficacious at all levels of education. The instructors are making use of this method in imparting knowledge to the students. On the other hand, the students are also required to give presentations as a part of evaluation method. In giving presentations, the individuals make use of technologies in most cases, as Power Point presentations are common. Apart from technologies, they also make use of research papers, articles and reports. In leading to up-gradation of the presentation method, the individuals need to make sure they possess adequate knowledge in terms of the topics and make the presentations expressive. When the individuals will possess adequate knowledge, they will be able to overcome the feelings of apprehensiveness, stress and anxiety when giving presentations. There are differences in the types of presentations. Normally, all types of presentations are put into operation in educational institutions at all levels. Therefore, the instructors and the students are well-aware in terms of the fact that presentations are regarded as an integral part of the teaching and the learning processes at all levels of education. The main concepts that are taken into account in this research paper are, methods of initiating presentations, factors to be considered in making the presentation method effective and types of presentation methods. Keywords: Educational Institutions, Effective, Knowledge, Methods, Presentation Method, Skills, Topics Presentation method is related to presenting of information in a clear and wellunderstood manner. The implementation of this method up-grades the competencies and abilities of the individuals to get their point across. In educational institutions at all levels, the instructors are making use of this method in imparting knowledge and understanding to the students in terms of academic concepts. On the other hand, the instructors are also making use of this method in evaluating the performance of students. The students are required to make presentations in class, as an evaluation method. In educational institutions at all levels, there are organization of seminars and workshops. In seminars and workshops, other individuals are invited from other educational institutions as well. These individuals are primarily in leadership positions and are professors and researchers. They make use of the presentation method in imparting information to the individuals, particularly in terms of the topic of the seminar or workshop. Therefore, presentation method is regarded as effectual and worthwhile in presenting information in a clear and well-ordered manner. The presentation method is regarded as worthwhile in every field. The individuals make selection of the field, in accordance to their interests, skills and abilities. In every field, i.e. education, arts, architecture, engineering, management, administration, science, technology, law and so forth, the individuals are required to up-grade their presentation skills. Presentation skills are regarded to be of utmost significance in achieving educational goals as well as in bringing about improvements in one’s overall quality of lives. In most cases, when the individuals are to give presentations, they make use of computers and prepare Power Point presentations. But in some cases, they make use of articles and various types of reading materials as well in preparing presentations. In order to make use of the presentation method in an effective manner, the individuals need to possess adequate information in terms of lesson plans and academic concepts. When they will be well-aware, they will do well in their jobs. Therefore, presentation method is regarded as meaningful and effectual and is acknowledged to a major extent. In doing well in the presentation method, there are various factors that need to be taken into consideration, i.e. possession of effective communication skills; maintaining eye contact with the audience; making use of common language that is easily understandable; inculcating the traits of morality and ethics; making provision of factual information; having pleasant facial expressions; possessing adequate technical skills; providing accurate answers to the questions put forward by the audience; speaking clearly and fluently and dressing neatly. When students are to give presentations, the instructors need to train them and provide efficient information. When the students are able to augment their knowledge in terms of these factors, they are able to carry out their job duties well. In most cases, when presentations are given in seminars and workshops or as a part of evaluation methods in class, the students are rewarded. The rewards are usually in the form of good grades and certificates. Therefore, the presentation method is essential and it contributes in bringing about improvements in communication skills and interactive abilities of the students. Methods of Initiating Presentations It is not difficult for the individuals at all levels of education to understand the methods of initiating presentations. When the individuals are preparing presentations, they are making use of various sources of information. As it is understood that individuals mostly make use of technologies, but they also make use of books, articles, reports and other reading materials. Before initiating presentations, greeting the audience is of utmost significance. The speakers need to wish them, and introduce the topic of presentation. When the individuals are making presentations, they need to depict curiosity and fervour in doing their jobs. When they will depict these traits, they will be able form connections with the audience. When the presenters are speaking with confidence, interest and enthusiasm, they are not only doing their job duties well, but they are also developing interest and curiosity among the audience and facilitate listening skills. Furthermore, the presenters need to be well-aware in terms of measures and strategies to overcome vulnerability and apprehensiveness. Therefore, it is comprehensively understood, when the individuals will be well-equipped in terms of the subjects and concepts, and they will speak confidently, they will be able to overcome vulnerability and apprehensiveness and do well in their jobs. It is understood that when the individuals are making presentations, they need to possess adequate information in terms of subjects and concepts. Apart from information, they make use of various types of materials, i.e. technologies, books, articles, projects, reports and other reading materials. The presenters need to be well-equipped with the usage of technologies. Furthermore, when the individuals are making presentations, they need to depict curiosity and attentiveness. When they will depict these traits, they will be able to form sociable terms and relationships with the audience. When the individuals are imparting information, they need to make sure that the audience is able to understand the information in a satisfactory manner. In presentations, the language that is made use of should be common and easily understandable. The words used should be simple. The audience are different in terms of number of factors, i.e. caste, creed, race, religion, ethnicity, cultures, age, genders, educational qualifications, skills, abilities, personality traits and socio-economic background. Therefore, when the individuals are making presentations, they need to take into account the needs and requirements of the audience. In order to initiate the presentation in an effective and regimented manner, the individuals need to ensure that they speak the facts (Chibana, 2020). Particularly on the basis of facts, the presentations are prepared. When they will be aware, they will perform their job duties well. In most cases, when the individuals are making presentations, they make use of the articles, papers and technologies. They read what has been written in these materials and if there is time, they make provision of explanations. In other words, they speak the information, which has not been specified in Power Points. The focus on the subject matter has to be done enthusiastically. In most cases, the individuals give examples. The examples need to be based on the topic. The main objective of giving examples is to make the information understandable to the audience. In some cases, stories are also told via presentations. In most cases, they are factual. This method normally arouses curiosity among students towards attending presentations and listening thoughtfully. Therefore, whether there are examples or stories, they should be understandable in a manageable manner and promote learning. Within the course of making presentations in terms of the concepts as well as upon their completion, the instructors provide opportunities to the students to put forward their questions. Hence, in this manner, they are providing solutions to the problems and doubts experienced by the students. The doubts and problems exist within the course of understanding of the subjects and concepts and within the course of achievement of academic goals. In other words, the question-answer sessions are encouraged within the course of putting into practice various forms of presentations. When students are required to make presentations, they also convey to the audience that they can put forward questions, if they have any. The question-answer sessions is regarded as vital in establishing connections between the instructors and students. Therefore, it is understood, when the presenters make provision of opportunities to the audience to put forward their questions and they provide accurate and satisfactory answers, they are rendering a significant contribution in making presentations expressive and meaningful. Factors to be considered in making the Presentation Method Effective When the individuals are well-resourced in terms of the methods of giving presentation and ways of making effective presentations, they will contribute in a significant manner in doing well and in achieving the desired goals and objectives. Furthermore, the possession of information in making the presentations effective will contribute in bringing about improvements in the overall quality of lives of the individuals. In making the presentation method effective and in ensuring that it contributes in an efficient manner in enhancing the competencies and abilities of the instructors, promoting student learning, and in up-grading the overall system of education, there are various factors, which need to be taken into consideration. These are stated as follows: Depict one’s Enthusiasm and Connect with the Audience – When the individuals are making presentations, they need to depict interest and enthusiasm. When they will depict these traits, they will be able to connect with the audience. When the individuals are imparting information, they need to make sure that the audience is able to understand the information in a well-organized manner. When the audience are attending presentations and are listening to the presenters, they have an objective. One of the common objectives is, they are required to augment their knowledge and understanding. Hence, when the presenters depict enthusiasm and establish a connection with the audience, they are able to do well in their jobs. Therefore, at all levels of education, when the individuals are making presentations in classrooms and in seminars and workshops, they need to depict enthusiasm and connect with the audience. This is regarded as one of the essential factors in making the presentation method effective. Focus upon the Needs and Requirements of the Audience – The audience are different in terms of number of factors, i.e. caste, creed, race, religion, ethnicity, cultures, age, gender, educational qualifications and socio-economic background. When the individuals are preparing presentations, they need to take into account the needs and requirements of the audience. In this case, the presentations are based on what the audience want to know and not what one can tell them. When the presentations are focused upon the needs and requirements of the audience, they will depict interest in listening and will even put forward their questions (Top Tips for Effective Presentations, 2020). In the presentation method, the interaction needs to be facilitated between the presenters and the audience. Therefore, it is comprehensively understood, when the instructors and students will prepare presentations in accordance to the needs and requirements of the audience, they will be able to make presentations effective. Concentrate on the Subject Matter – In order to make use of the presentation method in an effective manner, the individuals need to possess adequate information in terms of subjects and concepts, particularly on the basis of which presentations are prepared. When they will be well-aware, they will do well in their jobs. In most cases, when the individuals are making presentations, they have the articles, papers and technologies. They read what has been written in these materials and if time permits, they make provision of explanations. The concentration on the subject matter has to be done wholeheartedly. In most cases, the individuals give examples. The examples need to be based on the subjects and concepts. The main objective of giving examples is to make the information understandable to the audience. Therefore, it is well-understood, concentrating on the subject matter is the factor that is regarded to be of utmost significance in making the presentation method effective. Maintain Pleasant Facial Expressions – Presentations in some cases, enable the individuals to experience the psychological problems of stress and anxiety. These problems are regarded as major barriers within the course of making presentations. The students at all levels of education need to overcome these barriers and make presentations effective. One of the important factors is to maintain pleasant facial expressions. This factor in most cases is apparently understood, particularly when the students are adults in higher educational institutions. When the presenters are speaking, they need to have a smile on their face and maintain eye contact with the audience. In some cases, the audience is sitting on the right and left sides of the speakers as well. Hence, they need to maintain eye contact with the audience on all sides. Therefore, it can be stated, maintaining pleasant facial expressions is regarded as one of the indispensable factors in making the presentation method effective. Learn to Overcome Vulnerability and Apprehensiveness – The presenters need to be well-aware in terms of measures and approaches to overcome vulnerability and apprehensiveness. Within the course of making presentations, if the individuals feel vulnerable and apprehensive, they will experience problems and will not be able to attain the desired outcomes. When the students experience these traits, they will not be able to achieve the desired grades. On the other hand, when the instructors experience these traits, they will not be able to carry out their job duties well of instructing students. Hence, both the instructors and students need to ensure that their presentations should be made effective and meaningful, when they will be able to put into operation the methods and approaches to overcome vulnerability and apprehensiveness. Therefore, it can be stated, learning to overcome vulnerability and apprehensiveness is regarded as one of the important factors in making the presentation method effective. Develop Technical Skills – Technical skills are the qualities and abilities that the individuals need in performing digital tasks. The various types of technical skills are, programming languages, common operating systems, software proficiency, technical writing, project management and data analysis. It requires a great amount of preparation and repetition in leading to development of technical skills (Technical Skills, 2020). In most cases, when the individuals are giving presentations, they make use of computers and prepare Power Point presentations. Traditionally, individuals in the field of mathematics, science, technology, engineering and so forth are making use of technical skills. But apart from these fields, in all other fields as well, the individuals need to make use of technical skills. Getting engaged in regular practice is regarded as one of the key factors needed in the development of technical skills. Therefore, it is comprehensively understood, development of technical skills is regarded as one of the important factors in making the presentation method effective. Possess Sufficient Knowledge in terms of Topic – The individuals need to possess adequate information in terms of the topic on which the presentations are prepared. In most cases, the individuals are provided with the opportunities to make selection of the topic on their own, based on their interests and abilities. They are usually based on the subjects and lesson plans. In preparing presentations, the individuals need to possess adequate information and this is facilitated through conducting research. The research is conducted through making use of books, articles, reports, projects and other reading materials. Apart from these, the use of technologies and internet have acquired prominence. When the individuals are determined towards their job duties and aim to do well, they work diligently towards acquisition of knowledge and understanding. Therefore, the individuals are able to understand that when they possess sufficient knowledge in terms of topic, they will be able to make the presentations effective. Take into Consideration the Time – There is a time set for giving presentations. In most cases, it is five to ten minutes, but in some cases, it is more as well. When doctoral students are to make presentations in the pre-submission of their thesis, they need to take into consideration the time. In educational institutions at all levels, the time factor is regarded to be of utmost significance. As class lectures, exams, tests, competitions, debates and all other activities are carried out in accordance to the time. When the presentations are prepared, the individuals need to include the necessary information, which can be completed within the required time. When the time is short, the presentations are made brief. On the other hand, when the time is more, the individuals are able to include more amount of information. Therefore, it is comprehensively understood, taking into consideration the time is one of the vital factors in making the presentation method effective. Develop Interest and Enthusiasm in Speaking – When the individuals are making presentations, they need to depict interest and enthusiasm in speaking. When they will depict these traits, they will be able form linkages with the audience. When the presenters are speaking with confidence, interest and enthusiasm, they are not only doing their job duties well, but are also developing interest and curiosity in listening. Within the classroom settings, the classmates usually form cordial terms and relationships with each other. As they interact and exchange ideas and viewpoints needed in performing well in their job duties, they are able to generate the desired outcomes. When a student has received support and assistance from a classmate in the preparation of presentation, they will usually speak with interest and enthusiasm. Furthermore, the classmate will also listen with curiosity, particularly the one, who has provided help. Therefore, it is comprehensively understood, developing interest and enthusiasm in speaking is one of the crucial factors in making the presentation method effective. Inculcate the Traits of Diligence and Conscientiousness – Inculcation of the traits of diligence and conscientiousness is essential not only in making the presentations effective, but also in putting into operation other tasks and activities and achievement of academic goals. When the individuals are conducting research in terms of various areas and are preparing presentations, the inculcation of the traits of diligence and conscientiousness will help them to generate the desired outcomes. When the individuals are making use of computers and preparing Power Point presentations, they need to be well-equipped with technical skills. Whereas, when they are writing research papers, then too, the inculcation of the traits of diligence and conscientiousness will be regarded as efficacious in doing well and in generating the desired outcomes. Hence, these traits render a significant contribution in leading to up-gradation of knowledge and competencies. Therefore, it can be stated, inculcation of the traits of diligence and conscientiousness is one of the key factors in making the presentation method effective. Types of Presentation Methods Presentation methods are the methods, which enable the individuals to make presentations in an oral manner. When the individuals are delivering lectures or giving speeches, they are presenting information. The information can be presented in well-equipped manner, when the individuals are aware of the presentation methods. There are various types of presentation methods. The individuals need to make selection of the presentation method on the basis of various factors, i.e. needs and requirements of the audience, grade levels of students, academic subjects, and concepts, academic objectives and the overall system of education. The various types of presentation methods are stated as follows: Lecture Presentation Method – Lecture method is regarded as the ancient method of presenting information. The instructors are making use of this method in educational institutions at all levels. In the present existence, it is the regarded as one of the commonly used methods. In the implementation of this method, the instructors are making use of modern, scientific, technical and pioneering methods of teaching. Apart from these, there are usage of technologies as well. Within the classroom settings, computers and projectors are made use of to impart knowledge to the students in terms of lesson plans and academic concepts. The instructors explains the content matter to the students, so they are able to acquire an understanding of the subjects and concepts in a well-ordered manner. The instructors make use of gestures, simple strategies by changing the tone of voice, and facial expressions. The instructors are usually active, when they are putting into operation this method. In the lecture method, the instructors are the ones who render a significant contribution in educating students. They speak and students are meant to listen to them and understand the information. Workshop Presentation Method – In educational institutions at all levels, there are organization of seminars and workshops. In the seminars and workshops, other individuals are invited from other educational institutions as well. These individuals are primarily in leadership positions, i.e. heads, directors, principals, instructors and researchers. They make use of the presentation method in imparting information to the individuals in terms of the topic on the basis of which, the seminar or workshop is organized. The presentation in workshops is made through making use of technologies and articles. The individuals need to prepare themselves well. As when there are any types of questions put forward by the audience, the presenters need to be well-prepared to answer. In workshops, particularly in higher educational institutions, the students are provided with the opportunities to present papers. Usually, when they present papers, they are rewarded with certificates. This method provides the opportunities to the students to enhance their presentation and public speaking skills. Furthermore, they are able to pursue towards the right path, central in the achievement of academic goals. Evaluative Presentation Method – After the instructors have imparted information to the students in terms of lesson plans and academic concepts, they are required to find out how much the students have learned. Furthermore, they are to find out whether the teachinglearning methods have proven to be worthwhile or there is a need to bring about improvements. The evaluative presentation method is put into practice by the instructors to evaluate the performance of the students. In this case, the students are given a topic on which they need to prepare a presentation. Normally, the students make use of technologies and prepare Power Point presentations. The students in most cases, make use of modern, scientific and innovative methods to enrich their presentations. In some cases, they put in videos as well. Hence, when the students are determined towards doing well in their studies and the achievement of educational goals, they put in efforts to make presentations effective. Conducting analysis of the presentation method is regarded as essential and this is taken into consideration in evaluative presentation method (Hamilton, 2020). Coach Presentation Method – The coach presentation method is for energetic and charismatic speakers. This presentation method is regarded as the great style to make use of with the audience, who needs to enhance their ideas and viewpoints. This presentation method is effectual, when the presenters do not have to go into details. In some cases, when the instructors are presenting information in terms of concepts, they are not required to go into details. Hence, this method will be regarded as efficacious and meaningful. This method provides the opportunities to establish a connection with the audience making use of roleplay and listener interaction. For example, when the individuals are making use of information to sell a product, they make use of the coach presentation method. Furthermore, when the instructors are giving ideas and suggestions to the students, then too the coach presentation method is to be put into practice (Joy, 2020). Instructor Presentation Method – Instructor presentation method is the method of presentation that the instructors put into practice, when they need to impart information to the students in terms of lesson plans and academic concepts. In other words, when the instructors are teaching, through the utilization of various types of teaching-learning materials, they are presenting information to the students. In this method, the primary aim of the instructors is to ensure that the students are able to understand the concepts in an effectual manner and are able to do well in their academic tasks and functions. Within the course of imparting information in terms of the lesson plans as well as upon their completion, the instructors provide opportunities to the students to put forward their questions. Hence, in this manner, they are providing solutions to the problems and doubts experienced by the students within the course of achievement of academic goals. In other words, the question-answer sessions are encouraged within the course of putting into practice this method. Storytelling Presentation Method – As the name implies, storytelling presentation method is the method of presentation, which involves telling of stories. This method of presentation is normally put into practice in seminars and conferences. On the other hand, when the instructors are imparting information to the students in terms of lesson plans and academic concepts, then also they implement this method. In most cases, the stories which are conveyed are factual. This method normally arouses interest and enthusiasm among students towards attending presentations and listening attentively. When the presenters are telling stories, the audience normally forms the viewpoint that the way certain strategies, methods and approaches have been beneficial to others, in the same way, they can also benefit, if they implement them satisfactorily. If the concepts involve stories, the presenters ensure that they include stories and make the presentations interesting and meaningful. The stories will enable the individuals to understand the concepts in a satisfactory manner. Therefore, one can understand well that the storytelling presentation method has been worthwhile and effectual at all levels of education. Connector Presentation Method – In the connector presentation method, the feedback is encouraged from the audience. The individuals will make an attempt to connect with the audience through their presentation. After the presentations are over, the presenters connect with the audience through the similarities. Normally, at the end of the presentations, the speakers convey to the audience that they can ask questions if they have any. Apart from questions, the audience in some cases is given a survey questionnaire. In the survey questionnaire, the audience express their responses in terms of the presentations. If there are any limitations experienced, they are allowed to express them and suggest ways to bring about improvements. In this manner, a connection is established between the audience and the presenters. Furthermore, the presenters need to ensure that the audience is able to understand the information in an appropriate manner. Therefore, this method is made use of, particularly when the presenters are keen to find out, whether they have done their job duties well or there is a need to bring about improvements. Persuasive Presentation Method – Persuasive presentation method is the presentation method, when the presenters are making an attempt to persuade the audience. In educational institutions at all levels, there are organization of canteens in which the students sell various types of food items. In such cases, they make visits to the classes and present the information regarding their canteen. When they are presenting information, they are making an attempt to persuade the individuals. In other words, they are making an attempt to arouse interest and enthusiasm within the mind-sets of the individuals, so they are able to make a visit to the canteen and purchase the items. In some cases, when the information is imparted to the audience, they feel reluctant. Hence, the information should be organized in such a manner that the audience generate interest and enthusiasm. Therefore, this method is encouraged, particularly when the individuals are making presentations to convince and influence the audience. Furthermore, they are interested to find out, whether they have done their job duties well or there is a need to bring about improvements. Interactive Presentation Method – In the interactive presentation method, the presenters have the major aim to interact with the audience through the information. It is apparent that when the presenters are presenting information, they are interacting with the audience. The interaction with the audience not just takes place in this presentation method, but in all the presentation methods. When interaction takes place with the audience in the interactive presentation method, the presenters normally have two major aims, i.e. they need to make the presentation interesting and develop curiosity and enthusiasm among them. Another aim is to make sure that the audience is able to understand the information. When the presentations are made through Power Points, they should not comprise too much of information. In other words, the slides should not be too overloaded with information. In the interactive presentation method, the main factors that are taken into account are, possession of effective communication skills, maintaining eye contact with the audience, making use of common language, implementing the traits of goodness and truthfulness, providing accurate information, having pleasant facial expressions, possessing adequate technical skills and providing factual answers to the questions put forward by the audience. Freeform Presentation Method – In the freeform presentation method, the presenters do not make use of Power Point slides. In this case, the possession of technical skills are not regarded as crucial. When the individuals are making presentations, they are speaking as if they are well-aware in terms of the topic, they are presenting. In other words, they are speaking freely. The individuals do not have to prepare much in terms of this form of presentation. In some cases, in educational institutions, when the students have not prepared regarding the topic and they are required to make a brief presentation, in such cases, the freeform presentation method is put into practice. Normally, in educational institutions at all levels, the instructors in class normally convey the viewpoint to the students that the freeform presentation method will help them to enhance their communication and public speaking skills. They give a topic to the students, in terms of which they have to speak. In this manner, the students learn to make presentations, without having to make use of technologies. Conclusion Presentation method is related to presenting of information in a flawless and consistent manner. The implementation of this method up-grades the competencies and abilities of the individuals to convey their information. In educational institutions at all levels, the instructors are making use of this method in imparting knowledge and understanding to the students in terms of academic concepts. Factors to be considered in making the presentation method effective are, depict one’s enthusiasm and connect with the audience, focus upon the needs and requirements of the audience, concentrate on the subject matter, maintain pleasant facial expressions, learn to overcome vulnerability and apprehensiveness, develop technical skills, possess sufficient knowledge in terms of topic, take into consideration the time, develop interest and enthusiasm in speaking and inculcate the traits of diligence and conscientiousness. The various types of presentation methods are, lecture, workshop, evaluative, coach, instructor, storytelling, connector, persuasive, interactive and freeform. It is vital for the instructors and students to be well-aware in terms of methods of initiating presentations. Finally, it can be stated, when the individuals are well-equipped with presentation skills and ways of making effective presentations, they will contribute in an efficient manner in doing well and in generating the desired outcomes. Bibliography Chibana, N. (2020). How to Start a Presentation: 12 Ways to keep Your Audience Hooked. Retrieved October 30, 2020 from visme.co Hamilton, S. (2020). Presentation Evaluation Tools. Retrieved October 29, 2020 from classroom.synonym.com Joy, S. (2020). 10 Types of Effective Presentation Styles (Top Methods for 2020). Retrieved October 29, 2020 from business.tutsplus.com Technical Skills: Definition and Examples. (2020). Retrieved October 24, 2020 from indeed.co.in Top Tips for Effective Presentations. (2020). Retrieved October 29, 2020 from skillsyouneed.com