PowerPoint: Help or Hinder? Developed by Kris Robinson 2006, revised 2010
“Done wrong, PowerPoint is more potent than secobarbital (Brown 2001)” Watch video Life after Death by PowerPoint with Don McMillan Life after Death by PowerPoint with Don McMillan
PowerPoint: Basic Tips “Joy of Six” Maximum of 6 points per slide Maximum of 6 words per point Floor test Printout readable from standing position (usually minimum font 36)
PowerPoint: Visual Appeal Use contrasting, yet complementary colors Use text sparingly Minimize or avoid Animated text and sound Fancy transitions
PowerPoint: Interactive Use Stimulate discussion Include abbreviated main points on blank slide Leave out points on handout Have learners identify what’s missing
Example: One minute writing
PowerPoint: Interactive Use (con’t) Number points Students able to focus questions quickly Provide handout Limit 3 pages (3 slides/page) Room for notes
PowerPoint: Interactive Use (con’t) Watch video Mini workshop Mini workshop
Take home messages Use rule of 6s Minimize distractions When posting slides, include oral or written narrative