My oral presentation students do a pre- and post -assessment of themselves for each speech. I agree with their self-assessments. However, once they know their learning gaps, they do not know how to improve. They may self analysis that “I need to have more eye contact.” but they do not improve in it.
I have found that if I can give them some “hands-on” hints to improve then they do improve. I used to tell them to look up after each period but I found that many students just kept on reading. Now I have them put a large slash at the end of each sentence and, furthermore, I suggest that the slash is in a bold color like red and that it is a big slash. I want them to see that slash and then look up. Now my students do have eye contact as they read their speech. The physical reminder causes them to demonstrate a good speaking technique.
Many students need physical reminders of how to do well. Words do not suffice. What physical techniques do you give your students so they can improve?
