Slide development

Using slides wisely can greatly enhance an audiographic teleconference. Like overheads in face-to-face presentations, well-designed slides are especially valuable when

  1. they are closely tied to the main ideas presented in the study guide or
  2. used to promote an activity.

Diagrams help to organize data or to demonstrate abstract relationships. They are most effective when partnered with teaching strategies that require students to pay attention to specific details.

Slides can also be used during an audiographic teleconference

When using text, less is more. Each screen or slide should be used to introduce one topic or idea, written in plain language. Information should be organized in a logical and fluid manner, the overall effect being one of balance, harmony and consistency.

Well-prepared slides illustrate attention to spacing, margins, lines and contrast. Generous spacing enhances the information on-screen. The text should begin from the left margin rather than the centre. The text lines should be short and simple with ample space between. Using a high contrast helps to accentuate the focal point. Supporting points can be introduced with bullets.

Slides should reflect consistent use of colour, for continuity's sake. Similar or like colours are effective when used to link words or images. Light coloured type works well with a dark background -preferably dark blue or black. Colours like red on green or orange on blue are very difficult to read. They tend to bleed into the background, causing a fuzzy appearance. Best practice suggests that no more than four colours should be used per slide for text.

Plain font types are easier to read, with the font size indicating its place of importance in the overall slide. Apply the KISS. Principle generously when composing text. More than 25 words on five lines means that another slide should be considered.

* Keep It Simple, Sweetheart!