Visual Aids

Question 1

Visual Aid (DEF)

Answer 1

visual, audio, or visual-audio devices used to assist a speaker used to assist a speaker in communicating ideas to the audience

Question 2

Types

Answer 2

1) traditional aids
- aids that do not apply electronic ideas to communicate ideas to the audience
- models = to scale depictions of an object
- graphs = indicates relationships found in numerical data
- charts = summarize or list blocks of info
- transarencies - clear sheets illuminated on projector
- objects
2) Technological aids
- video, when words and sounds do not suffice
- audio - just need audience to hear
- powerpoint - minimize slide’s ability to distract listener (no long sentences) - incorporates traditional and tech aids

Question 3

Occam’s Razor

Answer 3

1) one should nor increase, beyond what is necessary, the number of entities required to explain anything
2) simplest explanation is the best explanation
3) parsimony - presentation aids should be simple, but not distracting, and effective

Question 4

Uses

Answer 4

1) Clarity
- clarify a key point
- illustrate an idea that cannot be fully described by words alone
2) Retention
- Help your audience remember your ideas
- Support your argument with a graphic display of facts and figures
3) Interest
- Draw attention to your topic/point
- dramatize a point or idea
- stimulate an emotional reaction

Question 5

Practicality

Answer 5

1) proper places within the speech (when, where, how) at which you should make use of presentation aids
2) correspond with main points
3) avoid irrelevant information

Question 6

Ten Guidelines for Using Presentation Aids

Answer 6

1) prepare the presentation aid in advance
2) make the aid interesting, visual (not verbal) and colorful
3) make aid large enough
4) display the aid where everyone can see it clearly
5) display only while using or discussing it
6) explain the aid completely
7) do not let aid be distracting
8) do not pass aids around
9) speak to audience, not aid
10) Practice with the aid