Apart from interaction and communication with students inside the classroom, the teachers need to deliver successful presentations in meetings, seminar-workshops, conferences and their activities when the need arise. However, one of the most dreaded moments of teachers is to stand in front and talk or deliver a speech or make presentations. Yes, many teacher fear public speaking. Fearing something is natural instinct anyone could have. Overcoming it is also a skill that anyone can learn, although you might say it is easier than done.

As teachers, we are trained to speak publicly way back in our college days. Members of the human race, we claim to have the highest form of communication because we have the ability to make a formal speech, which is missing from other creatures. Therefore we must be able to use the gift to the best of our knowledge.

There are some common basic fear people may have about giving a speech or presentation like: 1.) Being afraid to commit mistakes 2.) Being afraid to be criticized 3.) Scared of losing face and being embarrassed. 4.) Afraid to be caught in controversy.  Sta. Ines (2013), suggested some ways to get over of fear of public speaking:

O – organize your thoughts very thoroughly.

V – visualize how to present your self

E – exercise each by simple etching to release tension from your body and mind

R – rehearse your piece until you have mastered what you are supposed to do or say

C – clear your mind of everything but your presentation

O – observe proper breathing

M – move around for emphasis, this is when your body language talks

E – eye contact to maintain attention to your listener

Sta Ines further stressed that overcoming fear doesn’t happen instantly or automatically. It is the result of deliberate intention, and conscious action towards doing things that scares you. As a result of overcoming your fear, you grow as a person, and expand the possibility that surrounds your life.

Reference:

Sta Ines, S. How to Deliver Successful Presentations. Bookware Publishing Corporation. Q.C. 2013.

By: Amalia C. Cortez | Teacher III | Dr. Victoria B. Roman Memorial Highschool | Pantingan Pilar, Bataan