It is important that students have the opportunity to present the findings of their inquiry. Larissa Pahomov, author of the book Authentic Learning in the Digital Age: Engaging Students Through Inquiry, indicates that all successful classroom presentations (pp. 86-90) are:
- Flexible. A presentation does not just involve an individual standing at the front of the room speaking. A presentation can take on many forms – speaking, singing, and creating – and can incorporate a variety of mediums – pictures, movies, songs, and other artifacts. Students need to have the flexibility to choose the method and medium with which they are most comfortable presenting information to others.
- Shareable. The presentation and the product thereof should be available to students after its completion, so that the content remains accessible for all students. Handouts, electronic discussion boards, and video can be made available to students, so they continue to learn from the work of their peers.
- Interactive. Students who are receiving the information from a peer presentation need to have some vested interest in the presentation. This can be achieved by having students assess the work they are receiving or by having students provide opportunities to improve upon/add to the presentation.
In our classrooms, students have been enjoying the opportunity to collaborate and practice inquiry. Help your students plan for flexible, shareable, and interactive presentations about what they are learning. They will engage in content in meaningful ways and enjoy the process. You will, too.
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