Speaking and Presenting: Pitches and Persuasion

Go to Course: https://www.coursera.org/learn/speaking-and-presenting-pitches-persuasion

Introduction

**Course Review: Speaking and Presenting: Pitches and Persuasion on Coursera** In today's fast-paced and competitive environment, the ability to effectively present ideas is more crucial than ever. Recognizing this need, Coursera offers an insightful course titled "Speaking and Presenting: Pitches and Persuasion." This course is part of the four-part series “Good with Words: Speaking and Presenting,” and focuses specifically on the art of effectively communicating pitches with a blend of research and creativity. ### Course Overview "Speaking and Presenting: Pitches and Persuasion" aims to empower participants with the tools necessary to captivate an audience while delivering persuasive presentations. The goal is to merge facts and imaginative vision, ensuring that presenters can not only support their ideas with data but also inspire their listeners through their delivery. ### Syllabus Breakdown The course is structured over four weeks, each week focusing on particular themes and skills that are essential for effective speaking and presenting. #### Week 1: Optimism - Vocabulary The journey begins with an exploration of *optimism* in communication. This week dives into the connection between different thinkers and performers, such as George Orwell and Charles Eames, highlighting how a positive vocabulary can frame and enhance presentations. Participants will learn how to articulate a sense of hope and possibility, laying the groundwork for persuasive pitches. #### Week 2: Optimism - Speaking Studies and Speaking Exercises Building upon the first week, this module encourages an examination of optimism using various case studies and practical exercises. Learning from historical figures and recent studies informs participants about the psychological aspects behind optimistic communication. This week promises to be interactive, with engaging exercises designed to put the theory into practice and challenge students to refine their speaking styles. #### Week 3: Dynamic - Vocabulary Week three shifts gears to examine the role of *dynamic* presentation styles. Through a detailed analysis of Martin Luther King Jr.’s iconic “I Have a Dream” speech, participants will uncover the importance of body language and nonverbal cues in enhancing persuasive speech. This week encourages students to rethink how they present themselves physically, as effective communication extends beyond words. #### Week 4: Dynamic - Studies & Exercises Finally, participants will delve into real-world applications by studying various influential figures who have mastered dynamic communication. This module reinforces the idea that effective presenters utilize more than just vocalization to express themselves; they embody their messages through their physical presence. By studying successful communicators, students will prepare to adopt and adapt these techniques for their presentations. ### Recommendation This course comes highly recommended for anyone looking to enhance their presentation skills, whether you're a beginner or looking to refine your existing abilities. The blend of research, practical exercises, and insightful examples makes it engaging and informative. **Who Should Enroll?** - Business professionals seeking to enhance their pitching skills. - Students preparing for oral presentations or public speaking. - Anyone interested in developing persuasive communication skills. ### Conclusion "Speaking and Presenting: Pitches and Persuasion" equips learners with invaluable skills that are essential in all spheres of life, whether academic, professional, or personal. The thoughtful construction of the syllabus, along with engaging content and practical exercises, makes this course not only enjoyable but also beneficial for your communication toolkit. Don't miss this opportunity to transform your presentation skills—enroll today!

Syllabus

Week 1 | Optimism: Vocabulary

What do the British writer George Orwell and the American designer Charles Eames have in common? We’ll find out in this first week of “Pitches and Persuasion,” the second course in the four-part series “Good with Words: Speaking and Presenting.”

We’ll take a deeper look at the quality of optimism this week, with a little help from a 19th-century neurologist, a 20th century graduate of Harvard Law School, and a set of 21st-century experiments. It’s going to be a fun week.

We’ll start by taking a new look at Martin Luther King Jr.’s famous “I Have a Dream Speech” at the March on Washington in 1963. But we won’t be focusing on his rhythmic cadence or strategic uses of pauses. Instead, we’ll turn our attention to the persuasive power he generates with his head, his arms, and even his heels. Body language, we’ll see, can be some of the most effective languages around.

The first American woman to become a Supreme Court justice. The first German Chancellor to commemorate the Warsaw Ghetto Uprising. And a brave political activist who decided the best way to make a statement would be to climb up a flagpole. We learned about each of those figures last week and are now ready to take a look at some helpful research about the quality each of them shared: they communicated with more than just their mouths.