11:09
June 14, 2026
Kellie Arnold
Overview
This video provides an introduction to COMM 181: Basic Public Speaking. The instructor outlines course expectations, assignment details, and crucial guidelines for delivering effective speeches, especially in an online format. Key topics include the importance of a live audience, proper video recording techniques, extemporaneous speaking, and utilizing note cards. The video also details various course components such as formal speeches, outlines, chapter readings and quizzes, discussion boards, informational video summaries, and an online orientation, emphasizing professional communication and adherence to deadlines.
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Chapters
- Welcome to COMM 181, a short and intense summer course focused on public speaking.
- The instructor aims to support students through informational videos and direct assistance.
- This first video covers course expectations, assignments, and proper video presentation techniques.
- Future videos will detail specific speeches, including the self-introduction speech.
Understanding the course structure and instructor's approach from the outset helps students manage their time effectively and prepare for the demands of the program.
The instructor is recording this video from a kayak on a lake to demonstrate personalizing presentations and choosing a comfortable, engaging setting.
- Public speaking requires addressing a live audience, not just the camera.
- For speeches 2 and 3 (informative and persuasive), an audience of 3-4 people (family/friends) is mandatory.
- Informational videos, like this one, are different from public speaking assignments and do not require a live audience.
- Treating online presentations as if in a classroom with a large audience is crucial for effective public speaking.
Distinguishing between public speaking and informational videos is vital for correctly fulfilling assignment requirements and developing authentic presentation skills.
The instructor emphasizes that the camera is only one member of the audience; students must also include human audience members in their speech recordings.
- Maintain a full frontal view of yourself on camera for grading purposes.
- Incorporate facial expressions and gestures to connect with the audience.
- Use note cards placed in front of you for reference, rather than reading directly from behind the camera or memorizing word-for-word.
- Aim for extemporaneous speaking: knowing your material well enough to speak naturally, not robotically.
- Make eye contact with your audience, scanning the room as if it were full, to build credibility and connection.
Proper delivery techniques, including using note cards and making eye contact, are essential for engaging an audience and conveying credibility, which are core components of public speaking.
Students should have note cards visible in front of them and look down occasionally to refer to them, demonstrating natural engagement rather than rote memorization or reading from off-camera.
- Ensure your video is recorded upright (not sideways) and with clear audio (volume up).
- Speeches are uploaded through the 'Connect' program, accessible via Blackboard.
- Locate speech assignments and upload links on the 'Main Content' page in Blackboard.
- Adhere strictly to assignment deadlines; contact the instructor via email for emergencies.
- Formal outlines, using full sentences, are required for speeches 2 and 3, with examples provided in Blackboard.
Following technical and submission guidelines ensures that your work can be properly graded and that you avoid penalties for late or improperly formatted assignments.
The instructor mentions that sideways videos or those with poor audio quality have been difficult to grade in the past, highlighting the need for proper recording setup.
- Complete the online orientation or submit a certificate if previously completed.
- Read all 20 chapters of the ebook and complete corresponding quizzes for a grade.
- Participate in five discussion boards, including responding to at least two classmates.
- Watch all informational videos and submit a short summary via email for points.
- Review the syllabus and schedule on Blackboard's 'Start Here' and 'Read Me First' sections for detailed information.
Engaging with all course components, including readings, quizzes, discussions, and summaries, reinforces learning and contributes significantly to the overall grade.
The instructor advises students to work on chapter quizzes and discussion boards weekly, rather than waiting until the end of the term, to avoid being overwhelmed and to better prepare for speeches.
Key takeaways
- Effective public speaking hinges on connecting with a live audience, even when presenting online.
- Extemporaneous speaking, using note cards and natural delivery, is preferred over memorization or reading.
- Proper video recording setup (lighting, sound, framing) is crucial for online speech assignments.
- Treat every online presentation as a formal public speaking event, adhering to audience and delivery standards.
- Proactive engagement with course materials like readings, quizzes, and discussions enhances learning and speech preparation.
- Professional communication, including timely email responses and adherence to deadlines, is a key aspect of this course.
- The instructor is available to assist students, but students must take responsibility for understanding and meeting course requirements.
Key terms
Public SpeakingInformational VideoAudienceExtemporaneous SpeakingNote CardsFormal OutlineConnect (program)BlackboardProfessional CommunicationOnline Orientation
Test your understanding
- What is the primary difference between a public speaking assignment and an informational video in this course?
- How can students ensure their speeches are delivered in an extemporaneous manner rather than sounding robotic?
- Why is it important to have a live audience present when recording speeches 2 and 3?
- What are the essential technical requirements for recording and submitting video speeches?
- How do chapter quizzes and discussion boards contribute to a student's overall success in the public speaking course?