Using Presentation Tools Effectively

Using Laser Pointers

Even after you create an information balance for your presentation slides or visual aids, you may want to point out one specific area of the projection screen, blackboard or flipchart. As stated above, the instructor's position with respect to the visual aids is important. The instructor cannot just stand in front of the screen and point to an area with the shadow from his/her hand, especially if the screen is across the room. There are tools, however, that allow instructors to overcome these obstacles. One such tool is the laser pointer. Many new LCD projectors have laser pointers built into the remote control. Here are some tips for using a laser pointer effectively and safely

Use the laser pointer to avoid the "informational armpit" effect, where key information is usually displayed, not on the screen, but on the instructor who stretches to point at an area.
Use the laser pointer to reach inaccessible parts of the screen, such as the top, or to reach a screen across the room.
Include verbal cues. For example, alert your students to pay attention to the area illuminated by the laser pointer. This additional stimulus will draw their attention to the appropriate area quickly.
Keep movement of the beam to a minimum, so that students follow your words and not the laser beam.
Only use the laser pointer when you want to emphasize a point. Turn it off when you do not need it. Otherwise, it will become an ineffective tool.

Princeton University Environmental Health and Safety offers these safety considerations (n.d., para. 16):

"Laser pointers are effective tools when used properly. The following considerations should be observed when using laser pointers:"

Never look directly into the laser beam.
Never point a laser beam at a person.
Do not aim the laser at reflective surfaces.
Never view a laser pointer using an optical instrument, such as binocular or a microscope.
Do not allow children to use laser pointers unless under the supervision of an adult.
Use only laser pointers meeting the following criteria:
- Labeled with FDA certification stating "DANGER: Laser Radiation" for Class 3a lasers or "CAUTION: Laser Radiation" for Class 2 pointers.
- Classified as Class 2 or 3a according to the label. Do not use Class 3b or 4 products.
- Operates at a wavelength between 630 nm and 680 nm.
- Has a maximum output less than 5 mW, the lower the better.

Using a Remote Computer Mouse

Before delivering a presentation, you must consider the room layout and where the presentation equipment is located. For instance, you may not give an effective lecture if you are stuck behind a computer that is in the back of the room. To overcome this challenge, try to use new technologies, such as a remote computer mouse. Here are some tips for using a remote computer mouse effectively:

Plan what you want to do beforehand. Otherwise, random clicking will distract students from learning objectives.
Practice using the remote mouse before you lecture or present.
Make sure you know the remote mouse range, or maximum distance that you may stand from the receiver.