to Public Speaking, one of the most important courses you will ever take. If that sounds like too strong a claim, consider what these students had to say after taking a public speaking course:
I used to be terrified of speaking in public. I’ve learned that solid preparation is the key to overcoming my fears. I still get nervous, but now I know how to control my nervousness and focus on communicating with my audience.
This class has taught me to be a better listener. I’m more aware of weak arguments, fuzzy logic, and unsupported claims. I think critically about what I am being persuaded to do and why.
Before taking this class, I used to be the most boring speaker! My speeches were well researched, but my delivery was poor. Now I make eye contact with my audience members and use my voice and pauses to set a tone and emphasize key points.
I’ve learned more about the structure of speeches, especially the importance of an attention-grabber at the beginning of my speech and a preview of my main points to give the audience a “road map” of what I’m going to say.
These students noticed right away that a public speaking course helped them to develop or to refine their communication skills. You will notice a difference by the end of your course, too—and as you move beyond the classroom, you will find that the knowledge and experience you gain from the course also help you to be a more successful worker and a more effective citizen.
OBJECTIVE
1.1 Why Study Public Speaking?
You may have enrolled in this course because you expect to be making public presentations and you want to learn how to do that better and more easily. Maybe your goal is to speak more forcefully or to be less nervous. Perhaps you want to become better organized, to learn more about how to prepare a speech, or to think more clearly and more critically. You may even have chosen the course because it meets at a convenient time, is a requirement for graduation, or has a good
instructor.