Enhancing teaching presentation skills: Applying theory to practice

About

There is increasing understanding that quality interactions between University educators and students positively support learning outcomes. Our ability to create a vibrant learning environment, and deliver content with clarity, enthusiasm and drama, is just as important as a thoughtful lesson plan.

Designed for University educators, this interactive workshop will focus on enhancing skills in presenting and designing engaging learning content for lectures and small group teaching. It comprises expert-led workshops on voice, performance, content organisation, and respectful facilitation of class discussion. The workshop will involve active participation and some physical movement through opportunities to practice skills and receive feedback from experts.

Participants will be supported to reflect, disrupt their usual practice, try something new, and come away with increased confidence and competence in their ability to deliver dynamic, engaging, skillful lectures.

Program objectives

We aim to provide participants with the opportunity to:

• enhance skills and confidence in multiple aspects of lecture delivery, including those related to communication and clarity;
• understand the interrelated nature of voice, gesture, personality and clarity in the effective communication of course content;
• increase understanding of the principles and components of designing engaging learning materials;
• enhance skills in facilitating inclusive and respectful interactions in a lecture context; and
• increase understanding of their own capacity to deliver effective lectures that maximise opportunity for student learning.

Suitable for

This program is open to University of Melbourne teaching staff. It is most suitable for those in lecturer roles or similar roles that require content ‘delivery’. With this in mind, it is relevant for those who teach in either large or small-group settings. The workshop format will offer opportunities for practice, support and interaction. We will encourage participants to set their own learning goals that focus on further development of skills.

Program structure

The workshop comprises of one in person session and an online follow up session offered in Semester 1 and Semester 2. The in person session will take place on the Parkville campus. The online follow up session provides support for participants who attended the in person session to continue to develop their skills. Please note, the workshop content is not repeated in the online follow up session.

Schedule Semester 2, 2024

Course Coordinator

Associate Professor Grace Thompson, Head of Music Therapy, Melbourne Conservatorium of Music (FFAM)

Registrations are now open.

Register here