For this aspect of the module, we needed to create a presentation. We had the opportunity to rehearse our presentations first, in the form of an informal group session that took place in class. We then had to screen-record the real deal.
First up was the informal presentation. This version included a couple memes, and the script was more relaxed during certain slides. Saying that, I did try to keep the script somewhat professional and formal sounding, as I was planning to use it for the real deal!
I practiced a couple attempts at home, with my script on hand. Unfortunately, this version wasn't long enough, as it only just came to ten minutes. Although, when I presented it to the class, it went surprisingly well! When I began my presentation, the speakers notes never appeared, which meant I had to wing it. However, as I had practiced it enough, I did remember what each slide was meant to cover. It also provided me the chance to crack some jokes and bounce off of my audience, which helped ease my nerves! As a result, this presentation lasted the full fifteen minutes.
What Went Well?
- Because I had a class to present to, the atmosphere felt a lot more authentic and natural, which I believe came through in the session. The lecturers supported this by complimenting my humour and ability to keep the audience engaged, which is something I felt my practice attempts lacked.
- Considering I had absolutely no script or speakers notes to guide me, I feel as though I adapted well enough that it didn't effect the outcome of the presentation. Once again, a lecturer backed this up by saying it was on par with a session a Visiting Professional would run.
- They were also a fan of the presentation's layout, felt my showreel was well-structured, and thought my documents were cohesive. All of which, fills me with confidence for this module, which is something I have been extremely lacking recently!
To Be Improved?
- Without the use of an audience or room to adlib, my current presentation isn't long enough for the submission. I need to add slides or more speakers notes.
- My practice versions sounded a lot more wooden and boring compared to the real deal, so I'm nervous my recorded formal presentation will lack character and oomph.
- I'm still lacking confidence in my ability as an animator, so I need to take time to consider what I've achieved over the last year and appreciate it, rather than put myself down.
- Some slides could be worded more formally, so I need to make sure to amend this before I record the real deal.
Before the screening party, I was given another opportunity to practice my public speaking by saying a quick foreword before the films began. In which, I thanked everyone for coming, congratulated the class on making it this far, and told everyone to feel proud of themselves for what they've achieved.
In first year and even second, the thought of presenting to the class completely terrified me. I would become incredibly nervous and could barely make it through a sentence without my voice trembling. To go from that, to now presenting with composure and presence of mind, I feel is such a massive step in the right direction.
From here, I made some small adjustments, added some slides, and recorded my proper submission.
What Went Well?
- My updated version was now reaching about twelve or thirteen minutes, which was much closer to the target length. To add an extra minute or so to my screen-recording, I asked myself a couple questions, on the spot, as if I were presenting the powerpoint to the class. This simulates how it would have gone, had it not been for Covid.
- I tried to sound optimistic and speak eloquently however, the lack of an audience did lower my enthusiasm slightly, as talking to yourself can be rather awkward.
To Be Improved?
- I'm afraid that in the process of losing the relaxed atmosphere of our last day in class, I also lost the conditions that allowed me to let go and embrace the candidness and sincerity of the informal presentations. My voice sounds more wooden, and tense.
