Learning Outcomes:
- Participants will practice their public speaking skills and learn how to defend their thesis in public;
Duration:
50 minutes
Materials needed:
- None
Preparation
The trainer should provide a suitable location, preferably outdoors, where outsiders, including passers-by, can participate.
Description
1.The trainer asks participants to improvise a small tribune on the street or in the hall.
2.He/she explain the activity to participants.
Each participant will make a free speech (2-3 minutes) on a topic related to the environment that interests them.
They can also summarize their participation in the workshop activities, their opinion on environmental legislation and its application in the education of youth through non-formal methods.
Spectators in this “Hyde Park” can be not only the participants in the training, but also passers-by, volunteers, citizens, government and municipal officials. While the speaker is speaking, the audience will support them. Or maybe not…
3.Before starting the round of speeches, the trainer will give participants 10-15 minutes to prepare and rehearse their speeches
Debriefing
After all participants have given their speeches, the trainer starts the debriefing by asking:
- How did you feel?
- Did you manage to say everything you wanted to?
- Are you satisfied with what you have done?
- Would you participate in an event of a similar nature in connection with compliance with the EU’s environmental policy?
Tips
Try to create a supportive and safe environment for those who feel nervous or ashamed about speaking in front of others.
Remind participants that everyone is there to learn, and mistakes are part of the process. Normalize the idea that it’s okay not to be perfect.
Sometimes standing still while speaking increases nervousness. Let participants move around or use props, which can reduce the focus on them as speakers.
If possible, try to challenge participants thesis (or get somebody from the audience to do so); in this way, the participants will have a chance to practice their ability to explain their thesis, defend it and/or adjust it taking into consideration feedback and others’ opinions.
Handouts and resources
None.
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