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Present your project

Module 2 – Session 5 – Activity 2

This activity strengthens the participants’ ability and confidence to present their project to the public. This presentation created in this activity can be used, for example, to talk to potential cooperation partners or to recruit volunteers. The activity is suitable for researchers and citizens in a group or individual learning setting. Session #1 and #2 should be carried out beforehand.

In this activity, participants further refine their project description and focus on communicating the content and strategy to the public. Participants train their presentation skills to become more confident when speaking about their project in public.

Materials needed

Duration and setting

  • Setting: Single or group work
  • Execution: 60 minutes

Process description – what has to be done

Step 1 – Write a script for the presentation (30 minutes)

Take the results from the above sessions and write a script for your presentation. Imagine you are presenting the project to a potential project partner or an interested volunteer. Include in your script:

  • Introduction of yourself and your organization
  • Presentation of the project idea (goal, methodology, time frame)
  • Current status of the project (What has already been done? What still needs to be done? What is clear, what is not?)
  • What are your questions or expectations of the person you are introducing?

Write the script as you would actually speak to the person. Keep in mind the guidelines for plain language. You can also use an Artificial Intelligence text generator for a first draft of the text (e.g. www.chat.openai.com)

Example

“Hello, my name is Maria. Thank you for taking the time. I work for the Medienkompetenz Team, a non-profit organization in Karlsruhe. We work with families on the topic of digital media, such as smartphones, social media and video games. Our goal is to empower parents and their children to use digital media in a good way.

In our work, we see that many families have problems and stress in finding a good way to deal with digital media. Many children use their devices too often and for too long. When parents tell them to stop, it leads to big arguments. Children also come into contact with things that are not good for their age. Parents often know little about these things. With this project, we want to teach families how to use digital media sensibly: How to reduce stress and arguments. How to learn good use and content.

The project is aimed at families who are under great pressure in their daily lives. Either because they have little time, little money, no network to support them, or families who are hindered by language barriers, illness or other issues.

The core element of our project will be a playbox. The playbox contains objects and games that families can interact with. This makes it fun to take part in the project. In this relaxed situation, it is easier for the families to talk about the topic. The playbox also contains objects that families can use to learn about solutions from other families. They can also contribute their own solutions. The playbox can be used flexibly in different locations. It is easy to set up and requires no additional items or knowledge.

The collection of tips and tricks will also be presented on the Internet so that many more families can benefit from it. We have received funding from the municipality, which will enable us to fully finance the project. We are currently in the process of designing the play box.

We are presenting this project to you because we are looking for an institution or organization that can establish contact with the families. We also need a place to carry out the project. If you see an opportunity for your organization to benefit from the project, we would be delighted if you would join the project.“  

Step 2 – Practice your presentation (15 minutes)

Read the presentation out loud 2-3 times. Underline elements that you want to emphasize. Leave enough time for breaks.

Step 3 – Record your presentation (15 minutes)

Now read your script again or present it freely. Either use your smartphone to record your presentation or present it to the group. Ask for feedback:

  • Does your presentation get your message across to the audience?
  • Are all the words clear?
  • Are the sentences a good length?
  • What feeling does your presentation convey?

Improve your script and repeat it until you are satisfied. You can also present the project to other people, such as family members or friends. The more you practice, the more confident you will feel.

Learning Outcomes – which skills are addressed?

In this activity, participants further refine their project description and focus on communicating the content and strategy to the public. Participants train their presentation skills to become more confident when speaking about their project in public.

How do you check the outcomes are reached?

Participants have their presentation script ready and tested in various settings.

De-Briefing questions

  • How do you feel about presenting your project?
  • Are there any areas where you still feel insecure?
  • What could help you become more confident?

References – further information

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