All of these comments about using Powerpoint (or any presentation software: Apple iWorks Keynote, Open Office Impress, Lotus Freelance, etc.) show that it isn¹t the tool that is flawed, but its use often is flawed. I use Keynote about 95% of the time, Powerpoint for the rest.
Powerpoint has a tendency towards bullet pointing¹ topics, creating a hierarchy of information that might not properly map what is being discussed. I vary in my use, both in terms of frequency and style. For research methods and stats, it is rare that I use it. Most often, it is for me to demonstrate how to use a table or to graphically depict a relatively complex topic. Scan the table for the text if it isn¹t already available in digital format, then use the graphic tools in the program for examples of finding specific values from the table. In psychology content courses, I use it to keep my lecture on track and to make sure I have convenient links to online video content and other resources. I tend to not print out the slides, but do put page numbers on them for students to then make notes based on the page number. They know I¹ll put the presentation on Blackboard after class so they can integrate the materials. Paul -- Paul Bernhardt Frostburg State University Frostburg, MD, USA On 9/28/08 11:58 PM, "Michael Smith" <[EMAIL PROTECTED]> wrote: > > > > > > > > I use both power point and the whiteboard (and handouts and activities and > film clips and ...). > > I find PP useful because I can make changes easily and everything is in one > place (rather than keeping a binder with overheads). And I agree with the > others that one should not just read PP slides. I use them as reminders for > me, as main points, for presenting different graphics (for example, different > views of the brainstem) in the hope that it makes the points more clear. > > I also explain stuff on the white board (usually process-related). > > I think it is a good tool if you make good use of it. > > But I don't think one should always bow to student wishes. My students > complain that I don't have the PP slides on line along with a set of class > notes! (Although, I probably will start putting stuff online such as PP slides > and quizzes next year--but not because they want me to, but because I want to. > Honestly, really, I'm not bowing to their pressure--for sure, perhaps, at > least I think so :-) Skinner would no doubt say differently! > > --Mike > > > --- > To make changes to your subscription contact: > > Bill Southerly ([EMAIL PROTECTED]) > --- To make changes to your subscription contact: Bill Southerly ([EMAIL PROTECTED])
