The Launchpad Series: An OTA Student Success Tool
Module 4: Slide Design & Presentation Skills
GO!
Disclaimer These modules were developed in collaboration between doctoral capstone student Alyssa Antolin from Mary Baldwin University’s Murphy Deming College of Health Sciences and the Occupational Therapy Assistant Program at Tidewater Community College. These modules were created specifically to support students enrolled in the Occupational Therapy Assistant Program at Tidewater Community College. The content is intended to serve as a supplemental resource to reinforce foundational knowledge and promote student success within the program. Students are responsible for adhering to the specific course requirements, materials, and expectations outlined by their individual programs. For guidance regarding examinations, practical assessments, graded assignments, and required study materials, students should consult and communicate directly with their program professors and instructors. These modules do not replace official course instruction or faculty-directed learning resources.
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Welcome & How to Use this Module
Read ALL instructions carefully BEFORE starting the module!
Purpose: This module is intended to serve as a refresher tool to review foundational prerequisite knowledge necessary before entering the OTA program.Module Structure:
- This module will take approximately 45 minutes to complete.
- If you close the window or tab, your progress will not be saved. You are encouraged to complete the module in one sitting and to take notes on content areas where you feel least confident.
- Once a topic is completed and you move on to the next topic, you will not be able to return to the previous topic(s) again until the end of the module.
- These modules are paced. The “Next” button will appear after a designated amount of time has been spent on each content page. If you choose to press the “Back” button to review a previous slide, the “Next” button will remain paced and will only reappear after the required time has passed.
- Embedded Knowledge Checkpoints are included throughout the module. These are brief questions designed for practice and reinforcement. You may attempt each question as many times as needed until the correct answer is selected. Once the correct answer is chosen, you will be able to proceed; however, you will not be able to return to that question again once it's answered correctly.
- A 5 question Comprehensive Knowledge Check will be provided at the end of this module.
Note: There is no penalty associated with scores on the Knowledge Checkpoints or Comprehensive Knowledge Check. These are intended to serve as practice and self-assessment tools only.
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Module 4: Slide Design & Presentation Skills
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Begin
Slide Design & Presentation Skills
Importance of Slide Design & Presentation Skills
Here's Why it Matters in the OTA Program
Occupational Therapy Assistant students will give presentations throughout the OTA program and in clinical settings. Clear, well-designed slides help communicate clinical reasoning, intervention plans, and patient education effectively.Developing strong presentation skills prepares students to:
- Share clinical knowledge with peers and instructors
- Collaborate during group projects
- Present patient education clearly
- Communicate treatment planning in professional settings
Effective slide design and strong presentation skills helps keep information organized, easy to understand, and engaging for the audience.
Next
Back
Topic 1: Slide Design
Introduction to Slide Design
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Back
Introduction to Slide Design
Video: 13 Presentation Design Tips
13 Presentation Design Tips
This video by Visme talks about 13 presentation slide design tips that can ensure your presentations are not only informative but visually appealing.
Access Visme for free with this link!
Next
Back
Introduction to Slide Design
Characteristics of Strong Presentation Slides
Strong Presentation Slides Will...
Highlight the most important ideas
Use visuals to support learning
Reduce unnecessary text
Guide the audience's attention
Next
Next
Back
Back
Ten Rules for Effective Slide Design
10 Rules that can help improve your slide design!
Next
Back
Ten Rules for Effective Presentation Slides
Overview of the 10 Rules
10 Rules for Effective Slide Design
Next
Next
Back
Back
Ten Rules for Effective Presentation Slides
Rules 1 & 2
Rule 1: Include only one idea per slide
There should be one central objective, main idea, or question per slide. This involves simplifying complex ideas and topics to be more manageable for the audience to absorb. Example: If you're presentation topic is "What is Occupational Therapy?", you may want to organize your slide deck as follows:
- Slide 1: The Definition of Occupational Therapy
- Slide 2: Who Occupational Therapy Can Help
- Slide 3: How Occupational Therapy Assistants Provide Intervention
Rule 2: Spend only 1 minute per slide
It should take no longer than 1 minute to discuss each slide. A 20 minute long presentation should display at least 20 slides or more if necessary. This one minute per slide rule also helps keep your audience engaged as you continuously give them new content to think about.
Next
Next
Back
Back
Knowledge Checkpoint
Please ensure you've reviewed the previous lesson before moving forward as you will not be able to return to the content once you click "Next".
Next
Back
Slide Design & Presentation Skills
Knowledge Checkpoint
Next
Ten Rules for Effective Presentation Slides
Knowledge Checkpoint
Next
Ten Rules for Effective Presentation Slides
Rules 3 & 4
Rule 3: Make use of your heading
Rule 4: Include only essential points
Click the +INFO icons to learn more about writing effective headings and including essential information in your slides!
+INFO
+INFO
Next
Next
Back
Back
Ten Rules for Effective Presentation Slides
Rules 5 & 6
Rule 5: Give credit, where credit is due
Ensure that you include the proper references and citations on your slide when necessary. Sources should be properly cited on slides when needed and within your reference page. Please refer to module 2 to review proper standards for APA citation.
Rule 6: Use graphics effectively
Try to avoid slides that only contain text. Be sure visuals that you choose for each slide remains relative to the information on your slide. You can also ensure you are using graphics effectively by verbally introducing the figure to the audience when presenting.
Next
Next
Back
Back
Knowledge Checkpoint
Please ensure you've reviewed the previous lesson before moving forward as you will not be able to return to the content once you click "Next".
Next
Back
Ten Rules for Effective Presentation Slides
Knowledge Checkpoint
Next
Ten Rules for Effective Presentation Slides
Knowledge Checkpoint
Next
Ten Rules for Effective Presentation Slides
Rule 7
Rule 7: Avoid Cognitive Overload
This video by David Hendricks Professional Work discusses the Cognitive Load Theory. It overviews strategies on how to avoid cognitive overload when presenting new information.
Note: This video autostarts at the 53 second mark.
Next
Next
Ten Rules for Effective Presentation Slides
Rules 8 & 9
Rule 9: Iteratively improve slide design through practice
Rule 8: Design the slide so that distracted people get the main takeaway
While practicing your presentation, use the time to refine the flow and transitions between slides. Plan exactly how you will conclude one slide and seamlessly lead into the next.
Ask yourself: 'If the audience didn't hear a word I said, would they still understand the core concept of this slide?' Review your deck to ensure the main point of every slide is immediately clear.
Next
Next
Back
Back
Ten Rules for Effective Presentation Slides
Rule 10
'The real presentation almost never goes as we planned in our heads or during our practice'
Rule 10: Design to mitigate the impact of technical disasters
Design your slides to limit the impact of potential technical difficulties, such as poor internet connections. Here are some strategies to help minimize these disasters if they occur:
- Save your presentation as a PDF: This ensures you have a functional version that doesn't require an internet connection or specific software.
- Create a video backup slide: If you use videos, include a backup slide with speaker notes or bullet points summarizing the key takeaways. This ensures your audience doesn't miss vital information if the video fails to load.
Next
Next
Back
Back
Knowledge Checkpoint
Please ensure you've reviewed the previous lesson before moving forward as you will not be able to return to the content once you click "Next".
Next
Back
Ten Rules for Effective Presentation Slides
Knowledge Checkpoint
Next
Ten Rules for Effective Presentation Slides
Knowledge Checkpoint
Next
Topic 2: Presentation Skills
Strategies for Presenting & Public Speaking
Next
Introduction to Presentation Skills
Video: Nine Must-Have Presentation Skills to Elevate Your Speaking Game
9 Must-Have Presentation Skills to Elevate Your Speaking Game
This video by Coursera outlines key presentation skills. Key takeaways include:
- Verbal & Non-Verbal: Mastering clarity, pauses, and body language.
- Engagement: Understanding your audience and using storytelling.
- Presence: Projecting your voice and managing stage presence.
Next
Back
Effective Presentation Skills
Components of Presenting
Click each + icon to learn more about different components of presenting!
Self-awareness
Practicing self-awareness allows you to manage your nerves and emotions, helping you stay personable and react effectively to feedback during your performance.
Understanding the Audience
Understanding your audience's specific interests allows you to design a presentation that is highly relevant to their needs. This ensures your core message is clear and easy to grasp.
Stage Presence
To capture and hold your audience's attention, boost your stage presence by combining an enthusiastic demeanor with a confident delivery of interesting information.
Body Language
By mastering physical cues like posture, gestures, and eye contact, you can instantly transform a dull presentation into a dynamic and engaging experience.
Verbal Communication
To connect with your audience, deliver your message with audible confidence and intentional pauses. This ensures your speaking style is tailored to their specific needs.
Next
Back
Effective Presentation Skills
Strategies for Presenting
There are 3 ways you can plan for your delivery: - Read off a pre-prepared script
- Develop a set of main bullet points to refer to
- Memorize the speaking portion of your presentation
*It is recommended to memorize your words and have flashcards with main points to refer to if needed.
Avoid using your slides as speaking notes. Instead, use brief, summarized bullet points on note cards to guide you. Do not verbally repeat exactly what is on the slide. Use visuals to your advantage! Try incorporating a related image and explaining its relevance. This ensures you are engaging with the audience rather than reading directly off your slides.
Do your best not to move your body too much as it can be distracting to the audience. Instead, try keeping your lower body motionless and using hand gestures for emphasis. Also remember to give eye contact to different parts of the audience throughout your presentation. This can significantly improve your stage presence!
Once you have planned your delivery, stage presence, and speaking points, it’s time to put it all together for a final run-through! Gather a few trusted individuals to serve as a test audience. Ideally, choose people from whom you feel comfortable receiving constructive feedback.
Use this side of the card to provide more information about a topic. Focus on one concept. Make learning and communication more efficient.
Use this side of the card to provide more information about a topic. Focus on one concept. Make learning and communication more efficient.
Use this side of the card to provide more information about a topic. Focus on one concept. Make learning and communication more efficient.
Use this side of the card to provide more information about a topic. Focus on one concept. Make learning and communication more efficient.
1. Plan your delivery
3. Plan the multimedia
2. Develop stage presence
4. Put it all together
Title
Title
Title
Title
Write a brief description here
Write a brief description here
Write a brief description here
Write a brief description here
Flip to read more
Flip to read more
Flip to read more
Flip to read more
Next
Back
Effective Presentation Skills
Strategies to Improve Your Presenting Skills
Improving Your Presenting Skills
Practice Breathing: Maintain a smooth voice, practice slow nasal inhales before your presentation and switch to silent mouth-breathing during your speech to ensure you speak clearly on each exhale.
Learn Grounding Techniques: To maintain focus and calm, you can use grounding techniques like imagining yourself as a deeply rooted, unshakable tree to stay connected to the present and deflect distressing thoughts.
Overcome Fear:You can overcome presentation anxiety by using techniques like deep breathing, grounding, and consistent practice to channel your nervous energy into a more dynamic stage presence.
Build Self-Confidence: You can boost your confidence and speaking authority by preparing strong openings and visuals while maintaining a positive mindset and avoiding comparisons to others.
Speaking in front of a crowd requires practice just like any other skill. Working to improve these skills can help mitigate miscommunications down the line and improve the quality of your presentation. Click on the +INFO icons to explore a few ways to improve these skills.
+INFO
+INFO
+INFO
+INFO
Next
Back
Effective Presentation Skills
Video: How to Speak Confidently In Public - 3 Simple Tricks
Speak with Confidence
In this video, Dominic Colenso explains three simple tricks to speak more confidently in public. He specifically outlines these 3 tips:
- Warm up
- Breathe
- Focus on your audience
Next
Back
Knowledge Checkpoint
Please ensure you've reviewed the previous lesson before moving forward as you will not be able to return to the content once you click "Next".
Next
Back
Effective Presentation Skills
Knowledge Checkpoint
Next
Effective Presentation Skills
Knowledge Checkpoint
Next
Effective Presentation Skills
Knowledge Checkpoint
Next
Comprehensive Knowledge Check
Lets review what we've learned!
Next
Comprehensive Knowledge Check
Lets review what we've learned!
Next
Comprehensive Knowledge Check
Lets review what we've learned!
Next
Comprehensive Knowledge Check
Lets review what we've learned!
Next
Comprehensive Knowledge Check
Lets review what we've learned!
Next
Comprehensive Knowledge Check
Lets review what we've learned!
Next
References
- Anderson, C. (2013, June). How to give a killer presentation. Harvard Business Review. https://hbr.org/2013/06/how-to-give-a-killer-presentation
- Coursera. (2023, May 18). What Are Effective Presentation Skills (and How to Improve Them). Coursera. https://www.coursera.org/articles/presentation-skills
- Coursera. (2024, August 13). 9 Must-Have Presentation Skills to Elevate Your Speaking Game. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zJJx4yzIYTY
- Dominic Colenso. (2024, June 30). How To Speak Confidently In Public - 3 Simple Tricks. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kJ7OTRCUW_M
- Hendricks, D. (2016). Cognitive Load Theory, How Do I Apply It?. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=stJ-MkTgRFs
- Naegle, K. M. (2021). Ten simple rules for effective presentation slides. PLOS Computational Biology, 17(12), 1–6. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pcbi.1009554
- Visme. (2022, May 16). 13 Presentation Design Tips to Create an Awesome Slide Deck. YouTube; Visme. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wlY65y5Dj2g
- Wondershare Presentory. (2023, September 14). 10 Tips for Effectively Using Visual/Graphics in Presentations. YouTube. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9KMewHSxI8A
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Module 4: Slide Design & Presentation Skills
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Begin
Index
Topic 1
Slide Design
Topic 2
Presentation Skills
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Slide Design & Presentation Skills
Importance of Slide Design & Presentation Skills
Here's Why it Matters in the OTA Program
Occupational Therapy Assistant students will give presentations throughout the OTA program and in clinical settings. Clear, well-designed slides help communicate clinical reasoning, intervention plans, and patient education effectively.Developing strong presentation skills prepares students to:
- Share clinical knowledge with peers and instructors
- Collaborate during group projects
- Present patient education clearly
- Communicate treatment planning in professional settings
Effective slide design and strong presentation skills helps keep information organized, easy to understand, and engaging for the audience.
Next
Back
Topic 1: Slide Design
Introduction to Slide Design
Next
Back
Introduction to Slide Design
Video: 13 Presentation Design Tips
13 Presentation Design Tips
This video by Visme talks about 13 presentation slide design tips that can ensure your presentations are not only informative but visually appealing.
Access Visme for free with this link!
Next
Back
Introduction to Slide Design
Characteristics of Strong Presentation Slides
Strong Presentation Slides Will...
Highlight the most important ideas
Use visuals to support learning
Reduce unnecessary text
Guide the audience's attention
Next
Next
Back
Back
Ten Rules for Effective Slide Design
Here are 10 Rules that can help improve your slide design!
Next
Back
Ten Rules for Effective Presentation Slides
Overview of the 10 Rules
10 Rules for Effective Slide Design
Next
Next
Back
Back
Ten Rules for Effective Presentation Slides
Rules 1 & 2
Rule 1: Include only one idea per slide
There should be one central objective, main idea, or question per slide. This involves simplifying complex ideas and topics to be more manageable for the audience to absorb. Example: If you're presentation topic is "What is Occupational Therapy?", you may want to organize your slide deck as follows:
- Slide 1: The Definition of Occupational Therapy
- Slide 2: Who Occupational Therapy Can Help
- Slide 3: How Occupational Therapy Assistants Provide Intervention
Rule 2: Spend only 1 minute per slide
It should take no longer than 1 minute to discuss each slide. A 20 minute long presentation should display at least 20 slides or more if necessary. This one minute per slide rule also helps keep your audience engaged as you continuously give them new content to think about.
Next
Next
Back
Back
Ten Rules for Effective Presentation Slides
Rules 3 & 4
Rule 3: Make use of your heading
Rule 4: Include only essential points
Click the +INFO icons to learn more about writing effective headings and including essential information in your slides!
+INFO
+INFO
Next
Next
Back
Back
Ten Rules for Effective Presentation Slides
Rules 5 & 6
Rule 5: Give credit, where credit is due
Ensure that you include the proper references and citations on your slide when necessary. Sources should be properly cited on slides when needed and within your reference page. Please refer to module 2 to review proper standards for APA citation.
Rule 6: Use graphics effectively
Try to avoid slides that only contain text. Be sure visuals that you choose for each slide remains relative to the information on your slide. You can also ensure you are using graphics effectively by verbally introducing the figure to the audience when presenting.
Next
Next
Back
Back
Ten Rules for Effective Presentation Slides
Rule 7
Rule 7: Avoid Cognitive Overload
In this video, the Digital Learning Consultant explores Cognitive Load Theory, illustrating how poor slide design leads to learner confusion, disengagement, and cognitive overwhelm.
Next
Next
Back
Back
Ten Rules for Effective Presentation Slides
Rules 8 & 9
Rule 9: Iteratively improve slide design through practice
Rule 8: Design the slide so that distracted people get the main takeaway
While practicing your presentation, use the time to refine the flow and transitions between slides. Plan exactly how you will conclude one slide and seamlessly lead into the next.
Ask yourself: 'If the audience didn't hear a word I said, would they still understand the core concept of this slide?' Review your deck to ensure the main point of every slide is immediately clear.
Next
Next
Back
Back
Ten Rules for Effective Presentation Slides
Rule 10
'The real presentation almost never goes as we planned in our heads or during our practice'
Rule 10: Design to mitigate the impact of technical disasters
Design your slides to limit the impact of potential technical difficulties, such as poor internet connections. Here are some strategies to help minimize these disasters if they occur:
- Save your presentation as a PDF: This ensures you have a functional version that doesn't require an internet connection or specific software.
- Create a video backup slide: If you use videos, include a backup slide with speaker notes or bullet points summarizing the key takeaways. This ensures your audience doesn't miss vital information if the video fails to load.
Next
Next
Back
Back
Topic 2: Presentation Skills
Strategies for Presenting & Public Speaking
Next
Back
Back
Introduction to Presentation Skills
Video: Nine Must-Have Presentation Skills to Elevate Your Speaking Game
9 Must-Have Presentation Skills to Elevate Your Speaking Game
This video by Coursera outlines key presentation skills. Key takeaways include:
- Verbal & Non-Verbal: Mastering clarity, pauses, and body language.
- Engagement: Understanding your audience and using storytelling.
- Presence: Projecting your voice and managing stage presence.
Next
Back
Effective Presentation Skills
Components of Presenting
Click each + icon to learn more about different components of presenting!
Self-awareness
Practicing self-awareness allows you to manage your nerves and emotions, helping you stay personable and react effectively to feedback during your performance.
Understanding the Audience
Understanding your audience's specific interests allows you to design a presentation that is highly relevant to their needs. This ensures your core message is clear and easy to grasp.
Stage Presence
To capture and hold your audience's attention, boost your stage presence by combining an enthusiastic demeanor with a confident delivery of interesting information.
Body Language
By mastering physical cues like posture, gestures, and eye contact, you can instantly transform a dull presentation into a dynamic and engaging experience.
Verbal Communication
To connect with your audience, deliver your message with audible confidence and intentional pauses. This ensures your speaking style is tailored to their specific needs.
Next
Back
Effective Presentation Skills
Strategies for Presenting
There are 3 ways you can plan for your delivery: - Read off a pre-prepared script
- Develop a set of bullet point of main points to refer to
- Memorize the speaking portion of your presentation
*It is recommended to memorize your words and have flashcards with main points to refer to if needed.
Avoid using your slides as speaking notes. Instead, use brief, summarized bullet points on note cards to guide you. Do not verbally repeat exactly what is on the slide. Use visuals to your advantage! Try incorporating a related image and explaining its relevance. This ensures you are engaging with the audience rather than reading directly off your slides.
Do your best not to move your body too much as it can be distracting to the audience. Instead, try keeping your lower body motionless and using hand gestures for emphasis. Also remember to give eye contact to different parts of the audience throughout your presentation. This can significantly improve your stage presence!
Once you have planned your delivery, stage presence, and speaking points, it’s time to put it all together for a final run-through! Gather a few trusted individuals to serve as a test audience. Ideally, choose people from whom you feel comfortable receiving constructive feedback.
Use this side of the card to provide more information about a topic. Focus on one concept. Make learning and communication more efficient.
Use this side of the card to provide more information about a topic. Focus on one concept. Make learning and communication more efficient.
Use this side of the card to provide more information about a topic. Focus on one concept. Make learning and communication more efficient.
Use this side of the card to provide more information about a topic. Focus on one concept. Make learning and communication more efficient.
1. Plan your delivery
3. Plan the multimedia
2. Develop stage presence
4. Put it all together
Title
Title
Title
Title
Write a brief description here
Write a brief description here
Write a brief description here
Write a brief description here
Flip to read more
Flip to read more
Flip to read more
Flip to read more
Next
Back
Effective Presentation Skills
Strategies to Improve Your Presenting Skills
Improving Your Presenting Skills
Practice Breathing: To manage anxiety and maintain a smooth voice, practice slow nasal inhales before your presentation and switch to silent mouth-breathing during your speech to ensure you speak clearly on each exhale.
Learn Grounding Techniques: To maintain focus and calm, you can use grounding techniques like imagining yourself as a deeply rooted, unshakable tree to stay connected to the present and deflect distressing thoughts.
Overcome Fear:You can overcome presentation anxiety by using techniques like deep breathing, grounding, and consistent practice to channel your nervous energy into a more dynamic stage presence.
Build Self-Confidence: You can boost your confidence and speaking authority by preparing strong openings and visuals while maintaining a positive mindset and avoiding comparisons to others.
Speaking in front of a crowd requires practice just like any other skill. Working to improve these skills can help mitigate miscommunications down the line and improve the quality of your presentation. Click on the +INFO icons to explore a few ways to improve these skills.
+INFO
+INFO
+INFO
+INFO
Next
Back
Effective Presentation Skills
Video: How to Speak Confidently In Public - 3 Simple Tricks
Speak with Confidence
In this video, Dominic Colenso explains three simple tricks to speak more confidently in public. He specifically outlines these 3 tips:
- Warm up
- Breathe
- Focus on your audience
Next
Back
Rule 3: Make use of your heading
Since we know there should only be one idea per slide, it is important to craft your headings carefully so that they are effective and appropriate. Use your heading to highlight the exact message you want to get across. Think of your heading as the introductory or conclusion sentence and think of the content of your slide as the paragraph. When an audience member reads your slide content, they should be able to come to the same conclusion that your header displays.
Example Headings
Content: Explaining what OT's role is in helping patients and clients with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs).
- Good heading example: OT Helps Patients Regain Independence in Daily Tasks
- Bad heading example: What's an ADL?
Rule 4: Include only essential points
Examples of Essential & Non-essential Points
Slide Content: The different Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) OTs can work on with patients and clients.
- Good example of essential points:
- Donning/doffing clothing
- Taking a shower or bathing
- Brushing teeth
- Bad example of non-essential points:
- The brand of clothing patients often wear
- Types of soaps to use for showering or bathing
- Common types of toothepaste patients use
If you feel any piece of content on your slide is not important enough to spend time on, then DO NOT keep it on your slide.To keep your audience focused, only include essential details or figures that you plan to explicitly discuss during your presentation. Clear and concise slide design is crucial for directing the attention of your viewers and successfully managing the flow of the session.
Rule 4: Include only essential points
Examples of Essential & Non-essential Points
Slide Content: The different Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) OTs can work on with patients and clients.
- Good example of essential points:
- Donning/doffing clothing
- Taking a shower or bathing
- Brushing teeth
- Bad example of non-essential points:
- The brand of clothing patients often wear
- Types of soaps to use for showering or bathing
- Common types of toothepaste patients use
If you feel any piece of content on your slide is not important enough to spend time on, then DO NOT keep it on your slide.To keep your audience focused, only include essential details or figures that you plan to explicitly discuss during your presentation. Clear and concise slide design is crucial for directing the attention of your viewers and successfully managing the flow of the session.
Rule 3: Make use of your heading
Since we know there should only be one idea per slide, it is important to craft your headings carefully so that they are effective and appropriate. Use your heading to highlight the exact message you want to get across. Think of your heading as the introductory or conclusion sentence and think of the content of your slide as the paragraph. When an audience member reads your slide content, they should be able to come to the same conclusion that your header displays.
Example Headings
Content: Explaining what OT's role is in helping patients and clients with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs).
- Good heading example: OT Helps Patients Regain Independence in Daily Tasks
- Bad heading example: What's an ADL?
Module 4: Slide Design & Presentation Skills
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Transcript
The Launchpad Series: An OTA Student Success Tool
Module 4: Slide Design & Presentation Skills
GO!
Disclaimer These modules were developed in collaboration between doctoral capstone student Alyssa Antolin from Mary Baldwin University’s Murphy Deming College of Health Sciences and the Occupational Therapy Assistant Program at Tidewater Community College. These modules were created specifically to support students enrolled in the Occupational Therapy Assistant Program at Tidewater Community College. The content is intended to serve as a supplemental resource to reinforce foundational knowledge and promote student success within the program. Students are responsible for adhering to the specific course requirements, materials, and expectations outlined by their individual programs. For guidance regarding examinations, practical assessments, graded assignments, and required study materials, students should consult and communicate directly with their program professors and instructors. These modules do not replace official course instruction or faculty-directed learning resources.
Next
Back
Welcome & How to Use this Module
Read ALL instructions carefully BEFORE starting the module!
Purpose: This module is intended to serve as a refresher tool to review foundational prerequisite knowledge necessary before entering the OTA program.Module Structure:
Note: There is no penalty associated with scores on the Knowledge Checkpoints or Comprehensive Knowledge Check. These are intended to serve as practice and self-assessment tools only.
Next
Back
Module 4: Slide Design & Presentation Skills
Back
Begin
Slide Design & Presentation Skills
Importance of Slide Design & Presentation Skills
Here's Why it Matters in the OTA Program
Occupational Therapy Assistant students will give presentations throughout the OTA program and in clinical settings. Clear, well-designed slides help communicate clinical reasoning, intervention plans, and patient education effectively.Developing strong presentation skills prepares students to:
- Share clinical knowledge with peers and instructors
- Collaborate during group projects
- Present patient education clearly
- Communicate treatment planning in professional settings
Effective slide design and strong presentation skills helps keep information organized, easy to understand, and engaging for the audience.Next
Back
Topic 1: Slide Design
Introduction to Slide Design
Next
Back
Introduction to Slide Design
Video: 13 Presentation Design Tips
13 Presentation Design Tips
This video by Visme talks about 13 presentation slide design tips that can ensure your presentations are not only informative but visually appealing.
Access Visme for free with this link!
Next
Back
Introduction to Slide Design
Characteristics of Strong Presentation Slides
Strong Presentation Slides Will...
Highlight the most important ideas
Use visuals to support learning
Reduce unnecessary text
Guide the audience's attention
Next
Next
Back
Back
Ten Rules for Effective Slide Design
10 Rules that can help improve your slide design!
Next
Back
Ten Rules for Effective Presentation Slides
Overview of the 10 Rules
10 Rules for Effective Slide Design
Next
Next
Back
Back
Ten Rules for Effective Presentation Slides
Rules 1 & 2
Rule 1: Include only one idea per slide
There should be one central objective, main idea, or question per slide. This involves simplifying complex ideas and topics to be more manageable for the audience to absorb. Example: If you're presentation topic is "What is Occupational Therapy?", you may want to organize your slide deck as follows:
Rule 2: Spend only 1 minute per slide
It should take no longer than 1 minute to discuss each slide. A 20 minute long presentation should display at least 20 slides or more if necessary. This one minute per slide rule also helps keep your audience engaged as you continuously give them new content to think about.
Next
Next
Back
Back
Knowledge Checkpoint
Please ensure you've reviewed the previous lesson before moving forward as you will not be able to return to the content once you click "Next".
Next
Back
Slide Design & Presentation Skills
Knowledge Checkpoint
Next
Ten Rules for Effective Presentation Slides
Knowledge Checkpoint
Next
Ten Rules for Effective Presentation Slides
Rules 3 & 4
Rule 3: Make use of your heading
Rule 4: Include only essential points
Click the +INFO icons to learn more about writing effective headings and including essential information in your slides!
+INFO
+INFO
Next
Next
Back
Back
Ten Rules for Effective Presentation Slides
Rules 5 & 6
Rule 5: Give credit, where credit is due
Ensure that you include the proper references and citations on your slide when necessary. Sources should be properly cited on slides when needed and within your reference page. Please refer to module 2 to review proper standards for APA citation.
Rule 6: Use graphics effectively
Try to avoid slides that only contain text. Be sure visuals that you choose for each slide remains relative to the information on your slide. You can also ensure you are using graphics effectively by verbally introducing the figure to the audience when presenting.
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Knowledge Checkpoint
Please ensure you've reviewed the previous lesson before moving forward as you will not be able to return to the content once you click "Next".
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Ten Rules for Effective Presentation Slides
Knowledge Checkpoint
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Ten Rules for Effective Presentation Slides
Knowledge Checkpoint
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Ten Rules for Effective Presentation Slides
Rule 7
Rule 7: Avoid Cognitive Overload
This video by David Hendricks Professional Work discusses the Cognitive Load Theory. It overviews strategies on how to avoid cognitive overload when presenting new information.
Note: This video autostarts at the 53 second mark.
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Ten Rules for Effective Presentation Slides
Rules 8 & 9
Rule 9: Iteratively improve slide design through practice
Rule 8: Design the slide so that distracted people get the main takeaway
While practicing your presentation, use the time to refine the flow and transitions between slides. Plan exactly how you will conclude one slide and seamlessly lead into the next.
Ask yourself: 'If the audience didn't hear a word I said, would they still understand the core concept of this slide?' Review your deck to ensure the main point of every slide is immediately clear.
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Next
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Ten Rules for Effective Presentation Slides
Rule 10
'The real presentation almost never goes as we planned in our heads or during our practice'
Rule 10: Design to mitigate the impact of technical disasters
Design your slides to limit the impact of potential technical difficulties, such as poor internet connections. Here are some strategies to help minimize these disasters if they occur:
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Knowledge Checkpoint
Please ensure you've reviewed the previous lesson before moving forward as you will not be able to return to the content once you click "Next".
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Ten Rules for Effective Presentation Slides
Knowledge Checkpoint
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Ten Rules for Effective Presentation Slides
Knowledge Checkpoint
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Topic 2: Presentation Skills
Strategies for Presenting & Public Speaking
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Introduction to Presentation Skills
Video: Nine Must-Have Presentation Skills to Elevate Your Speaking Game
9 Must-Have Presentation Skills to Elevate Your Speaking Game
This video by Coursera outlines key presentation skills. Key takeaways include:
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Effective Presentation Skills
Components of Presenting
Click each + icon to learn more about different components of presenting!
Self-awareness
Practicing self-awareness allows you to manage your nerves and emotions, helping you stay personable and react effectively to feedback during your performance.
Understanding the Audience
Understanding your audience's specific interests allows you to design a presentation that is highly relevant to their needs. This ensures your core message is clear and easy to grasp.
Stage Presence
To capture and hold your audience's attention, boost your stage presence by combining an enthusiastic demeanor with a confident delivery of interesting information.
Body Language
By mastering physical cues like posture, gestures, and eye contact, you can instantly transform a dull presentation into a dynamic and engaging experience.
Verbal Communication
To connect with your audience, deliver your message with audible confidence and intentional pauses. This ensures your speaking style is tailored to their specific needs.
Next
Back
Effective Presentation Skills
Strategies for Presenting
There are 3 ways you can plan for your delivery:
- Read off a pre-prepared script
- Develop a set of main bullet points to refer to
- Memorize the speaking portion of your presentation
*It is recommended to memorize your words and have flashcards with main points to refer to if needed.Avoid using your slides as speaking notes. Instead, use brief, summarized bullet points on note cards to guide you. Do not verbally repeat exactly what is on the slide. Use visuals to your advantage! Try incorporating a related image and explaining its relevance. This ensures you are engaging with the audience rather than reading directly off your slides.
Do your best not to move your body too much as it can be distracting to the audience. Instead, try keeping your lower body motionless and using hand gestures for emphasis. Also remember to give eye contact to different parts of the audience throughout your presentation. This can significantly improve your stage presence!
Once you have planned your delivery, stage presence, and speaking points, it’s time to put it all together for a final run-through! Gather a few trusted individuals to serve as a test audience. Ideally, choose people from whom you feel comfortable receiving constructive feedback.
Use this side of the card to provide more information about a topic. Focus on one concept. Make learning and communication more efficient.
Use this side of the card to provide more information about a topic. Focus on one concept. Make learning and communication more efficient.
Use this side of the card to provide more information about a topic. Focus on one concept. Make learning and communication more efficient.
Use this side of the card to provide more information about a topic. Focus on one concept. Make learning and communication more efficient.
1. Plan your delivery
3. Plan the multimedia
2. Develop stage presence
4. Put it all together
Title
Title
Title
Title
Write a brief description here
Write a brief description here
Write a brief description here
Write a brief description here
Flip to read more
Flip to read more
Flip to read more
Flip to read more
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Effective Presentation Skills
Strategies to Improve Your Presenting Skills
Improving Your Presenting Skills
Practice Breathing: Maintain a smooth voice, practice slow nasal inhales before your presentation and switch to silent mouth-breathing during your speech to ensure you speak clearly on each exhale.
Learn Grounding Techniques: To maintain focus and calm, you can use grounding techniques like imagining yourself as a deeply rooted, unshakable tree to stay connected to the present and deflect distressing thoughts.
Overcome Fear:You can overcome presentation anxiety by using techniques like deep breathing, grounding, and consistent practice to channel your nervous energy into a more dynamic stage presence.
Build Self-Confidence: You can boost your confidence and speaking authority by preparing strong openings and visuals while maintaining a positive mindset and avoiding comparisons to others.
Speaking in front of a crowd requires practice just like any other skill. Working to improve these skills can help mitigate miscommunications down the line and improve the quality of your presentation. Click on the +INFO icons to explore a few ways to improve these skills.
+INFO
+INFO
+INFO
+INFO
Next
Back
Effective Presentation Skills
Video: How to Speak Confidently In Public - 3 Simple Tricks
Speak with Confidence
In this video, Dominic Colenso explains three simple tricks to speak more confidently in public. He specifically outlines these 3 tips:
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Back
Knowledge Checkpoint
Please ensure you've reviewed the previous lesson before moving forward as you will not be able to return to the content once you click "Next".
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Effective Presentation Skills
Knowledge Checkpoint
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Effective Presentation Skills
Knowledge Checkpoint
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Effective Presentation Skills
Knowledge Checkpoint
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Comprehensive Knowledge Check
Lets review what we've learned!
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Comprehensive Knowledge Check
Lets review what we've learned!
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Comprehensive Knowledge Check
Lets review what we've learned!
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Comprehensive Knowledge Check
Lets review what we've learned!
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Comprehensive Knowledge Check
Lets review what we've learned!
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Comprehensive Knowledge Check
Lets review what we've learned!
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References
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Option 1: Click the "Review" button to review content from all module topics. Option 2: Click the "Next" button to access the module completion page.
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Module 4: Slide Design & Presentation Skills Complete
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Module 4: Slide Design & Presentation Skills
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Begin
Index
Topic 1
Slide Design
Topic 2
Presentation Skills
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Slide Design & Presentation Skills
Importance of Slide Design & Presentation Skills
Here's Why it Matters in the OTA Program
Occupational Therapy Assistant students will give presentations throughout the OTA program and in clinical settings. Clear, well-designed slides help communicate clinical reasoning, intervention plans, and patient education effectively.Developing strong presentation skills prepares students to:
- Share clinical knowledge with peers and instructors
- Collaborate during group projects
- Present patient education clearly
- Communicate treatment planning in professional settings
Effective slide design and strong presentation skills helps keep information organized, easy to understand, and engaging for the audience.Next
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Topic 1: Slide Design
Introduction to Slide Design
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Introduction to Slide Design
Video: 13 Presentation Design Tips
13 Presentation Design Tips
This video by Visme talks about 13 presentation slide design tips that can ensure your presentations are not only informative but visually appealing.
Access Visme for free with this link!
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Introduction to Slide Design
Characteristics of Strong Presentation Slides
Strong Presentation Slides Will...
Highlight the most important ideas
Use visuals to support learning
Reduce unnecessary text
Guide the audience's attention
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Ten Rules for Effective Slide Design
Here are 10 Rules that can help improve your slide design!
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Ten Rules for Effective Presentation Slides
Overview of the 10 Rules
10 Rules for Effective Slide Design
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Ten Rules for Effective Presentation Slides
Rules 1 & 2
Rule 1: Include only one idea per slide
There should be one central objective, main idea, or question per slide. This involves simplifying complex ideas and topics to be more manageable for the audience to absorb. Example: If you're presentation topic is "What is Occupational Therapy?", you may want to organize your slide deck as follows:
Rule 2: Spend only 1 minute per slide
It should take no longer than 1 minute to discuss each slide. A 20 minute long presentation should display at least 20 slides or more if necessary. This one minute per slide rule also helps keep your audience engaged as you continuously give them new content to think about.
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Ten Rules for Effective Presentation Slides
Rules 3 & 4
Rule 3: Make use of your heading
Rule 4: Include only essential points
Click the +INFO icons to learn more about writing effective headings and including essential information in your slides!
+INFO
+INFO
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Ten Rules for Effective Presentation Slides
Rules 5 & 6
Rule 5: Give credit, where credit is due
Ensure that you include the proper references and citations on your slide when necessary. Sources should be properly cited on slides when needed and within your reference page. Please refer to module 2 to review proper standards for APA citation.
Rule 6: Use graphics effectively
Try to avoid slides that only contain text. Be sure visuals that you choose for each slide remains relative to the information on your slide. You can also ensure you are using graphics effectively by verbally introducing the figure to the audience when presenting.
Next
Next
Back
Back
Ten Rules for Effective Presentation Slides
Rule 7
Rule 7: Avoid Cognitive Overload
In this video, the Digital Learning Consultant explores Cognitive Load Theory, illustrating how poor slide design leads to learner confusion, disengagement, and cognitive overwhelm.
Next
Next
Back
Back
Ten Rules for Effective Presentation Slides
Rules 8 & 9
Rule 9: Iteratively improve slide design through practice
Rule 8: Design the slide so that distracted people get the main takeaway
While practicing your presentation, use the time to refine the flow and transitions between slides. Plan exactly how you will conclude one slide and seamlessly lead into the next.
Ask yourself: 'If the audience didn't hear a word I said, would they still understand the core concept of this slide?' Review your deck to ensure the main point of every slide is immediately clear.
Next
Next
Back
Back
Ten Rules for Effective Presentation Slides
Rule 10
'The real presentation almost never goes as we planned in our heads or during our practice'
Rule 10: Design to mitigate the impact of technical disasters
Design your slides to limit the impact of potential technical difficulties, such as poor internet connections. Here are some strategies to help minimize these disasters if they occur:
Next
Next
Back
Back
Topic 2: Presentation Skills
Strategies for Presenting & Public Speaking
Next
Back
Back
Introduction to Presentation Skills
Video: Nine Must-Have Presentation Skills to Elevate Your Speaking Game
9 Must-Have Presentation Skills to Elevate Your Speaking Game
This video by Coursera outlines key presentation skills. Key takeaways include:
Next
Back
Effective Presentation Skills
Components of Presenting
Click each + icon to learn more about different components of presenting!
Self-awareness
Practicing self-awareness allows you to manage your nerves and emotions, helping you stay personable and react effectively to feedback during your performance.
Understanding the Audience
Understanding your audience's specific interests allows you to design a presentation that is highly relevant to their needs. This ensures your core message is clear and easy to grasp.
Stage Presence
To capture and hold your audience's attention, boost your stage presence by combining an enthusiastic demeanor with a confident delivery of interesting information.
Body Language
By mastering physical cues like posture, gestures, and eye contact, you can instantly transform a dull presentation into a dynamic and engaging experience.
Verbal Communication
To connect with your audience, deliver your message with audible confidence and intentional pauses. This ensures your speaking style is tailored to their specific needs.
Next
Back
Effective Presentation Skills
Strategies for Presenting
There are 3 ways you can plan for your delivery:
- Read off a pre-prepared script
- Develop a set of bullet point of main points to refer to
- Memorize the speaking portion of your presentation
*It is recommended to memorize your words and have flashcards with main points to refer to if needed.Avoid using your slides as speaking notes. Instead, use brief, summarized bullet points on note cards to guide you. Do not verbally repeat exactly what is on the slide. Use visuals to your advantage! Try incorporating a related image and explaining its relevance. This ensures you are engaging with the audience rather than reading directly off your slides.
Do your best not to move your body too much as it can be distracting to the audience. Instead, try keeping your lower body motionless and using hand gestures for emphasis. Also remember to give eye contact to different parts of the audience throughout your presentation. This can significantly improve your stage presence!
Once you have planned your delivery, stage presence, and speaking points, it’s time to put it all together for a final run-through! Gather a few trusted individuals to serve as a test audience. Ideally, choose people from whom you feel comfortable receiving constructive feedback.
Use this side of the card to provide more information about a topic. Focus on one concept. Make learning and communication more efficient.
Use this side of the card to provide more information about a topic. Focus on one concept. Make learning and communication more efficient.
Use this side of the card to provide more information about a topic. Focus on one concept. Make learning and communication more efficient.
Use this side of the card to provide more information about a topic. Focus on one concept. Make learning and communication more efficient.
1. Plan your delivery
3. Plan the multimedia
2. Develop stage presence
4. Put it all together
Title
Title
Title
Title
Write a brief description here
Write a brief description here
Write a brief description here
Write a brief description here
Flip to read more
Flip to read more
Flip to read more
Flip to read more
Next
Back
Effective Presentation Skills
Strategies to Improve Your Presenting Skills
Improving Your Presenting Skills
Practice Breathing: To manage anxiety and maintain a smooth voice, practice slow nasal inhales before your presentation and switch to silent mouth-breathing during your speech to ensure you speak clearly on each exhale.
Learn Grounding Techniques: To maintain focus and calm, you can use grounding techniques like imagining yourself as a deeply rooted, unshakable tree to stay connected to the present and deflect distressing thoughts.
Overcome Fear:You can overcome presentation anxiety by using techniques like deep breathing, grounding, and consistent practice to channel your nervous energy into a more dynamic stage presence.
Build Self-Confidence: You can boost your confidence and speaking authority by preparing strong openings and visuals while maintaining a positive mindset and avoiding comparisons to others.
Speaking in front of a crowd requires practice just like any other skill. Working to improve these skills can help mitigate miscommunications down the line and improve the quality of your presentation. Click on the +INFO icons to explore a few ways to improve these skills.
+INFO
+INFO
+INFO
+INFO
Next
Back
Effective Presentation Skills
Video: How to Speak Confidently In Public - 3 Simple Tricks
Speak with Confidence
In this video, Dominic Colenso explains three simple tricks to speak more confidently in public. He specifically outlines these 3 tips:
Next
Back
Rule 3: Make use of your heading
Since we know there should only be one idea per slide, it is important to craft your headings carefully so that they are effective and appropriate. Use your heading to highlight the exact message you want to get across. Think of your heading as the introductory or conclusion sentence and think of the content of your slide as the paragraph. When an audience member reads your slide content, they should be able to come to the same conclusion that your header displays.
Example Headings
Content: Explaining what OT's role is in helping patients and clients with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs).
Rule 4: Include only essential points
Examples of Essential & Non-essential Points
Slide Content: The different Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) OTs can work on with patients and clients.
If you feel any piece of content on your slide is not important enough to spend time on, then DO NOT keep it on your slide.To keep your audience focused, only include essential details or figures that you plan to explicitly discuss during your presentation. Clear and concise slide design is crucial for directing the attention of your viewers and successfully managing the flow of the session.
Rule 4: Include only essential points
Examples of Essential & Non-essential Points
Slide Content: The different Activities of Daily Living (ADLs) OTs can work on with patients and clients.
If you feel any piece of content on your slide is not important enough to spend time on, then DO NOT keep it on your slide.To keep your audience focused, only include essential details or figures that you plan to explicitly discuss during your presentation. Clear and concise slide design is crucial for directing the attention of your viewers and successfully managing the flow of the session.
Rule 3: Make use of your heading
Since we know there should only be one idea per slide, it is important to craft your headings carefully so that they are effective and appropriate. Use your heading to highlight the exact message you want to get across. Think of your heading as the introductory or conclusion sentence and think of the content of your slide as the paragraph. When an audience member reads your slide content, they should be able to come to the same conclusion that your header displays.
Example Headings
Content: Explaining what OT's role is in helping patients and clients with Activities of Daily Living (ADLs).