The August 21st solar eclipse will be the biggest American weather event to hit the US in a very long time. Everyone is talking about it – at the water cooler, at schools and over family meals. It will be exciting and unforgettable – exactly what public speakers want from their moment on the stage.
However, one definition of an eclipse brings a different perspective.
Eclipse - the loss of significance, power or prominence in relation to another person
Should presenters want to be in the spotlight or, instead, develop parity with their audience? Malcolm Knowles, considered the father of androgogy, posited that adult learners need recognition of and respect for their background experiences. When presenters make the learning all about themselves as the experts, we dishonor the expertise in the room. Instead, intentionally allowing an eclipse of your prominence can engage adult learners in significant ways.
Here are 3 simple ways to foster a presenter eclipse:
For more ideas about increasing audience engagement, click here.
For even more ideas...
Anne Beninghof is passionate about teaching and learning.
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