Presentation style

Consider your presentation style. Be yourself. Be sincere. You may prefer a serious approach, or you may have a gregarious outgoing personality. Whatever you decide, use teaching methods that suit you.

Many lecturers feel nervous when presenting to large audiences. Learn some presentation techniques to overcome this; preparation is vital. For example, make sure you know your material well. Practice your 'opening' until you have it word perfect. Make it interesting. Personalise or contextualise it by using a relevant story. Use your own experiences. Use hooks to maintain interest and expectation, i.e. a real life example which might be an image or an anecdote that links to the topic being taught at the time. The link may not be obvious at first, but a hook is where you make it clear what the connection is.

Use signposting so that students can relate to where you are up to. Do this by telling them the lecture outline for the day and making sure you cover it; refer to the appropriate course material during the lecture and let them know where to find further relevant material.

Observe some lecturers in action and see how they handle their classes. However, also remind yourself that the lecturers you observe (whom you consider expert) will have taken quite some time to gain their experience and find their own presentation style.

In a larger theatre, you will seem quite small, particularly to those at the back. Project yourself a little more than you usually would. Even though you may have a large physical presence or a strong personality, this is not enough in a large lecture theatre. You will still need the technology to reach your audience.

• Speak clearly.

• Think about how the student sees you.

• Be passionate.

• Be adaptable - know the learning styles of your students, and also be aware of the venue you are teaching in.

• Be on time and know your material.

Handling questions

Don't just ask for questions at the end. Deliberately ask and encourage questions during the lecture, to ensure understanding.

Repeat the question before you answer it. Not everyone will have heard it. Reframe it slightly if you need to.

Compliment them for asking the question and acknowledge that the student may get it wrong - you are telling them it's "ok" to ask questions.

If possible, allow some time after the lecture to handle a few questions outside the lecture theatre.

Remind students that they they will also have an opportunity at their Lab, Tutorial or Practice Session to ask questions.