PowerPoint presentations are known to be an effective method of imparting education. They make teaching both interactive and enjoyable by offering display notes, video, audio and images.
However, if not used properly, they can become a hindrance to teaching rather than an aid. It is not difficult for PowerPoint presentations to turn into lectures rather than interactive sessions.
The Internet offers a wide range of tutorials on how to make effective presentations.
Drawing Tools for Effective Introductions
PowerPoint provides the use of drawing tools that enable you to introduce your topic through a picture and make your lesson very interactive. By going to the View menu, one can select Toolbars, and then Drawing Toolbar. Once the Drawing Toolbar appears at the bottom of the screen, one can experiment with various shapes and positions of these shapes. By right-clicking on any of the shapes, the Custom Animation tool can be selected. This allows for a variety of effects to be added to the creation.
Using the Pen for Presentation Notes
An interesting tool for making notes on an ongoing presentation, the Pen tool in PowerPoint can be used only while viewing the actual Slide Show. In View mode, one needs to hit Control + P, opening the Pen. One can use the mouse to draw or write. On exiting, the notes or drawings can be saved.
Text Boxes for Interactive Presentations
Students can set up Text Boxes and type information in them, making PowerPoint presentations more interactive. By going to the View menu and setting up the Control Toolbox, one can click on the Textbox button, and create as many textboxes as desired. This tool can only be used while viewing the Slide Show.
Conclusion
PowerPoint is a tool that can make learning more meaningful and education a much more engaging experience. It lies upon the teacher to realize the potential of this wonderful resource.