

THE BAHAMAS INSTITUTEOF FINANCIAL SERVICES
"Keeping Financial Services Education Relevant to Industry Needs"
EFFECTIVE PRESENTATIONS - BIFS 125
Course Description:
This course is designed to equip students with the skills necessary to research, prepare, and deliver compelling oral presentations using both traditional and digital tools. Students will learn the fundamentals of audience-centered communication, structure and delivery techniques, and the effective use of visual aids—including the creation of professional PowerPoint presentations. Emphasis is placed on reducing communication apprehension, strengthening critical thinking, and adapting presentations to various audiences and contexts. The course encourages the use of computer applications such as Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, and research using internet-based tools.
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Course Objectives:
Upon successful completion of this course, students will be able to:
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Analyze, organize, and present information clearly and concisely.
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Explain and demonstrate key elements of the communication process.
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Develop confidence and manage nervousness through rehearsal and delivery techniques.
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Plan, structure, and deliver well-organized oral presentations using research to support key points.
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Create PowerPoint presentations that complement and enhance spoken messages.
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Adapt presentations to specific audiences through needs analysis and tailored messaging.
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Apply verbal and nonverbal strategies to maintain audience engagement and interest.
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Utilize technology to enhance content delivery and presentation effectiveness.
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Listen actively, provide constructive feedback, and handle questions professionally.
Course Learning Outcomes:
By the end of the course, students will be able to:
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Structure a message with a clear purpose, logical flow, and strong supporting evidence.
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Prepare and deliver extemporaneous and manuscript presentations using appropriate tone and style.
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Create visually effective PowerPoint slides that reinforce the spoken message.
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Use multimedia tools to support and clarify content for technical and non-technical audiences.
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Demonstrate the ability to research topics ethically and present findings with proper citation.
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Apply critical thinking and listening skills during presentations and discussions.
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Present confidently in various speaking situations, from impromptu remarks to formal speeches.
Recommended Course Materials:
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Textbook: Lecturer Manual
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Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
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Internet access and use of online research engines (e.g., Google, Wikipedia, Google Scholar)
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Instructor handouts and videos on visual design and presentation techniques
Course Content:
1. Introduction to Communication and Presentation Skills
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Communication models and the speech process
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Barriers to communication and overcoming stage fright
2. Research and Preparation
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Research methods using internet-based tools
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Ethical sourcing and citation
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Outlining and organizing the message
3. Audience Analysis and Message Adaptation
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Identifying audience demographics and needs
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Tailoring message tone, vocabulary, and style
4. Visual Design and PowerPoint Essentials
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Slide design principles (contrast, clarity, consistency)
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Integrating text, images, graphs, and multimedia
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Avoiding common design mistakes
5. Speech Structure and Delivery
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Introduction, body, conclusion, and transitions
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Delivery styles: impromptu, manuscript, memorized, and extemporaneous
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Vocal techniques and body language
6. Presentation Technology and Tools
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Using Microsoft PowerPoint effectively
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Operating technical equipment (projectors, remotes, etc.)
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Troubleshooting common tech issues
7. Listening and Feedback
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Active and evaluative listening
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Giving and receiving constructive critique
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Handling audience questions
8. Presentation Practice
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Impromptu presentations
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Informative and persuasive presentations
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Team or group presentations
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Final project: Oral and PowerPoint presentation with supporting report
Course Assessment & Evaluation:
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Class Participation and Attendance – 10%
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Written Assignments and Business Correspondence – 15%
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Oral Presentation – 15%
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Midterm Examination – 20%
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Final Examination – 40%
ASSOCIATES SUBJECTS
101 BUSINESS FUNDAMENTALS
102 COMPUTER SKILLS
103 SPANISH FOR BANKERS 1
111 BUSINESS CALCULATIONS
119 COLLEGE ENGLISH SKILLS 1
120 COLLEGE ENGLISH SKILLS 2
140 BASIC COLLEGE MATH
141 FINANCIAL ACCOUNTING 1
144 NATURAL & ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCE
145 PSYCHOLOGY
146 SOCIOLOGY
201 BUSINESS STATISTICS
211 PRINCIPLES OF MACROECONOMICS
212 PRINCIPLES OF MICROECONOMICS
231 BANKING LAW 1
236 BUSINESS COMMUNICATIONS
237 ORAL COMMUNICATIONS
241 FINANCIAL ACCOUNTING 2
301 FINANCIAL INSTITUTIONS & SERVICES
302 MONEY & CAPITAL MARKETS
303 MULTINATIONAL BANKING