Presentation and Communication Skills for Academics

Catalog description

Academics must effectively communicate the importance of their research to a wide range of audiences, including colleagues, students, stakeholders, and the general public, as well as in a variety of contexts, from academic conferences and job talks to one-on-one conversations, news interviews, and social media. This highly interactive course is designed to equip PhD students with the skills to confidently present their research and connect with varied audiences. Students will learn strategies for: developing stage and screen presence for live and virtual talks, responding to Q&A and research critiques, designing talks for specific audiences, and preparing for media or job interviews. The workshop-style class combines best practices from public speaking with elements from related fields, including the art of improv and the science of communication. Students are encouraged to request class time to practice for upcoming events, such as conferences, department talks, and job talks. Students also have the opportunity to meet one-on-one with the instructor for individualized coaching and feedback.