Learning Lab

To do your best in an online presentation it's important to plan and practise before you and your group present. Giving a presentation online is slightly different to presenting face-to-face. When you use technology to give presentations, you can use exciting new tools, but it can also cause headaches if you don't plan ahead. That's why it is a good idea to consider ways to ensure your online presentation runs as smoothly as possible. Read the information below to learn more about creating and delivering effective online presentations.

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Presenting online

If you are presenting in a group, it is important to practice with each other to ensure a smooth transition between your parts. Most presentation platforms provide a recording function which you can use to rehearse and review your presentation.

When delivering online, your audience might not always have their cameras on, which means you can't see their reactions or make eye contact with them. Instead, try to focus more on your voice: speak enthusiastically, at a natural volume, and try not to speak too fast.

Learn about the basic features of the platform you're using, so you can make your presentation more engaging and interactive. These might include screensharing, audience polls, reaction icons, whiteboard, and chat.

Expect some lagging, and at some points poor internet connection, and be prepared to deal with technical interruptions which may arise.

It’s good to explain what you're doing behind the scenes, e.g. "I will now share my screen". Your explanation will help the audience engage with your presentation.

Continue on to Mistakes and the lessons learnt.