Back to Introduction to Public Speaking
University of Washington

Introduction to Public Speaking

This course offers a proven framework for crafting and delivering impactful presentations. In the professional world, academic settings, or public life, we're frequently asked to "share some thoughts." Many individuals struggle in these situations. This course aims to make you excel where others stumble. We'll explore how to structure speeches coherently, write memorably, and present confidently. Upon completion, you will diminish your public speaking anxiety, leverage rehearsal methods to develop a robust, engaging speaking voice, and execute speeches with dynamic movements. The speech model we'll practice is versatile for briefings, elevator pitches, interviews, and even as a blueprint for hour-long presentations. Whether you're a novice or an experienced speaker, this course will help you master speaking fundamentals or elevate your public speaking skills to new heights. As a bonus, you'll gain access to an immersive VR experience that lets you perfect your presentation skills in a simulated auditorium or conference room, complete with a virtual audience. You will receive real-time feedback, empowering you to refine your abilities through practice in a realistic setting.

Status: Organizational Skills
Status: Composure
BeginnerCourse15 hours

Featured reviews

RC

5.0Reviewed Apr 14, 2021

Great introductory course which pushes you to actually practice what you learn. The lectures are interesting and well structured, the assignments require an effort but are not overwhelming.

TG

5.0Reviewed May 22, 2018

A really good course. If you want to brush up on your public speaking skills, I highly suggest that you take this. I felt that Dr. McGarrity was an amazing teacher, and you will feel the same.

SB

5.0Reviewed Aug 26, 2018

Without a doubt the best online course you'll find for Public Speaking. Teaches proper tone, presentation and speech writing styles. Phenomenal, I've recommended it to my coworkers and family.

CG

5.0Reviewed Sep 7, 2020

Excellent teacher, the way he explains every topic makes easy to understand all the course. The quizzes are challenging and help to reinforce the lessons. I learned a lot, thank you very much.

AR

5.0Reviewed Oct 7, 2020

In this course we can gain the basics of public speaking and the ability to speak before the audience. Under guidance of the professor Matt Mc Garrity we can easily gain public speaking skills.

MS

5.0Reviewed Nov 25, 2016

Excellent, I must say! The instructor and content both are very helpful in not only developing the skills but also in countering the fear of public speaking.I would strongly recommend this course.

MA

5.0Reviewed Dec 15, 2020

Excellent course! I got so much out of taking this course. I only wish I had taken this course sooner, as my prior speeches and presentations would have been so much better, with this knowledge.

MM

5.0Reviewed Oct 7, 2020

This course is excellent for the guys out there who want to improve their public speaking skills. As the techniques taught in the course are extraordinary and designed very perfectly.

DK

5.0Reviewed Jun 14, 2020

An excellent course to understand the nuances of public speaking. Crisp explanation and useful tips to overcome apprehensions of public speaking to inch closer towards a good orator.

HR

5.0Reviewed Mar 10, 2022

Dr. Matt is a pioneer iin public speaking, the way he speaks and show his dedication towards teaching is just love. I am truely tankful for his services towards teaching this in depth course.

SY

4.0Reviewed May 18, 2017

I have a great fear of Public Speaking. After taking this course, I came to know various ways and methods of getting over them. Thanks to the team for creating such a wonderful course.

EN

5.0Reviewed Feb 11, 2018

This course helped me practice my public speaking while giving me lots of extra theoretical knowledge I did not know. Amazing course for beginners and experienced public speakers.

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