The class I TA for has ended. Now the only thing left is for me to grade the finals. The students were allowed to use some notes during the exam, so I expect them to be pretty good.
Meanwhile, there are two more weekends left for the ethics class I teach. The next time we meet I'm discussing virtue ethics with the balance of the class time going to student presentations.
I like the idea of having students do oral presentations - I think it's vital to the learning process. Francis Bacon once wrote, "Reading makes a full man, writing makes an exact man, and speaking makes a quick man. He's on to something. Have you ever noticed that people who speak for a living are mentally quick also? (Reason #15 that I need a talk radio show!)
Seriously, I wish I were a better public speaker, I think the skill is vital for sucess.
Posted by Tim at July 14, 2004 01:38 PMI am amazed at how hard it is to get people to speak in front of a group. I often need to get speakers for Church (testimony) or for the Calgary Java User's Group and it chalenge every time.
- Peace
Dave
Yea, I know. Do you think part of the reason is that people feel they don't have anything important to say? I suspect that's part of it. I also think church leaders could do more to help. For example, the churches I've attended have a habit of putting someone in front of the mike and letting them speak alone. Compare that with tv talk shows; they always have the host interacting with the guest. I bet people would be more relaxed, and more real, if the pastor/leader would interact with them more.
Just an idea :)
Posted by: tim at July 15, 2004 12:27 PM