Students will learn to present themselves and material clearly, confidently, and persuasively, using age old arts of oral communication. They will learn techniques for overcoming stage fright, developing clear enunciation, finding and using their natural, unaffected vocal register, varying tone and intonation to hold audience interest, controlling pacing, moving with assurance and purpose, using appropriate gestures, and eye contact as well as exploring methods to change behaviors that bar effective communication and structure speeches to maximize persuasiveness.

This course is an experiential learning space in which students have the opportunity to develop and strengthen their capacity to express themselves in public, academic, personal, and professional life. Students learn useful practices for working with anxiety, stress, and various other obstacles they may face in public speaking and communication, while developing a sense of confidence in their ideas and ability to express them. Students deepen their awareness of the significance of oral tradition across diverse cultures, reflecting upon their own experiences of oral tradition and how those might shape their approach. They will dig deep to uncover their values and what they are most passionate about, as they cultivate their unique voice and point of view on a range of topics. Students will also learn common structures and conventions for a wide range of forms from storytelling to academic presentations, from comedy sketches to public interviews and TED Talks. They will come to understand best practices and how to navigate the risks inherent in each of these forms, learning that will be applicable in many areas of life. Students come away from this course with increased capacity to express themselves authentically, creatively, and effectively, grounded in their own identities and perspectives. To support this process, we build a community of care, mutual support, and collaborative learning that will be of benefit in their time at UC Berkeley and beyond.

Repeat Rules

Course is not repeatable for credit.