A Note to Instructors
Just the Basics is a workbook that can be used on its own or as a supplement to other Public Speaking and Introduction to Communication textbooks. It was developed to give students access to the tools they need to have success with their very first presentation without the need to read numerous chapters on each of these skills. It provides a streamlined approach not only for the design and delivery of a presentation, but also for the listening and feedback process as well. The workbook includes Speech Evaluation Competencies as developed by the National Communication Association (Appendix D) as well as a variety of feedback forms that can be adapted to suit your approach. Whether you are an experienced instructor or are new to teaching presentation skills, Just the Basics may be a useful resource.
This workbook teaches students to use the extemporaneous approach to their presentations: the actual wording occurs at the time of delivery based on preparation of and rehearsal with a specifically structured outline. Extemporaneous speaking allows students to use a balance between preparation and structure with the immediacy of interacting with the audience. Over the years, I have seen that by having students structure the outline as explained in the workbook, they are able to recall the important structural components of their message (i.e., thesis, preview, transitions) while speaking “in the moment”. Extemporaneous speaking skills are also far more adaptable to other public communication contexts than using a manuscript or a memorized presentation. Most importantly, when students learn to speak extemporaneously, they experience a new-found confidence and have skills to build on after even one presentation.
A Note of Thanks
All of us need reliable, supportive feedback on our work to do well, and I am no exception. The material in this workbook was enhanced by the invaluable feedback from former colleagues Sue Lee, Janice Morris, and Chris Traynor of Kwantlen Polytechnic University. To them, I extend my sincere thanks for their time and suggestions. A special thanks goes to my husband, Geoff, for his input and for the numerous revisions he typed for me (he is a much faster, more efficient typist than I am!) His support, patience and contributions helped me stay with this project when it would have been easy to leave it on the side of my desk.
I want to particularly thank everyone at Kendall Hunt for their professional and supportive input, with particular thanks to Alec Keiper and Paige Timm for their guidance and patience throughout the process of bringing Just the Basics to life.
Most importantly, I extend my sincere thanks and appreciation to the hundreds of students with whom I have used earlier versions of this workbook for their suggestions and feedback. It is for them, and for students to come that this workbook is written.
Because the workbook can always be improved, I welcome suggestions for changes or additions from any student or instructor who uses Just the Basics. Contact me via the email below.
Wishing you success, and perhaps even fun, with your presentations!
Colleen McGoff Dean
Communication Studies
Whatcom Community College
cmcgoff@whatcom.edu
