Thursday, July 12, 2012

Any questions?

As I wrapped up my keynote talk in Minnesota, I concluded by asking the audience if they had any questions. Due to time limitations, there wasn't enough time to allow the audience to think of a question and then find the courage to ask it, so I received my round of applause without any real response from the audience. I was a little disappointed because I really do enjoy receiving a response from the audience.

Afterward, Penny was kind enough to offer me some pretty cool feedback. She suggested that rather than asking the audience for questions, I should give everyone a minute or two to think about my presentation and than ask a couple people to offer their best response.

I really like this idea. I'm going to use this to conclude my next talk and I'll let you know if it works better than just asking for questions.

Thanks Penny!

2 comments:

  1. I thought your presentation was insightful. You articulated that somewhat nausiated feeling I often get when I am required to teach a certain way, know that it doesn't feel right but can't verbalize why. I look forward to following your blog.

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  2. Thanks for sharing the slides etc . Just thinking - Alfie Kohn does not use slides , power point etc in his presentations. I think one loses connection and eye contact with the speaker . My thinking is to refer people back to your blog. In this way presentations are less overwhelming

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