[OS X TeX] NASA, Word, TeX and PowerPoint

[J.D. Corpuz]

Thanks to everyone for these  tips for better presentations and for 
bringing up the of Tufte's books. It's really an unexpected gem from 
this forum. Really appreciate all these.

Jonathan
>
> I think Joe hits the nail on the head, especially with his points re. 
> 'presentations have an environment and expectation that is not 
> conducive to critical thinking ...."
>
> Tufte also would agree with Joe's points.
>
>
> I've read a few of Tufte's books and have re-engineered my lectures to 
> take advantage of his insight. In short, what he recommends is that:
>
> 1) presentations should focus on Visuals, NOT text
>
> 2) the majority of the text and details should be given in handouts
>
> 3) this allows the presenter and the audience to focus on the ideas 
> and to think
>
> 4)  Tufte argues that we are asking too much of our audiences if we 
> want them to listen to us, read the text, and look at the visuals 
> simultaneously, all while thinking about the ideas we are presenting
>
> 5) Later, those wishing more details can consult their handouts.
> He also argues that audiences may be initially surprised by this 
> unconventional approach, but the handouts will help them see that you 
> are thoughtful and what you have to share is substantive.
>
> 6) The specific problems with Power Point are that
>     a) the canned themes are usually too busy or use fonts and style 
> in ways that defy good practices
>     b) the bullets and indents structure our presentations in ways 
> that don't coincide with how we learn and communicate
>     c) PP style presentations lower our expectations of actually being 
> engaged learners.
>
> For me, reading Tufte's books has fundamentally changed the way I 
> teach and present information to my students and colleagues.
>
> Regards,
>
> René
>
>
>
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