A Peer Mentoring Program for Faculty Development in Presentation Skills

Abstract

Junior faculty are often called upon to deliver high-stakes large-group presentations. Training in the skills needed to do this effectively is often lacking. We devised a 1.25 h coaching program. The coach analyzed a practice run of the presentation using a locally developed assessment tool. Areas covered included public speaking skills, promoting learner understanding and retention, creating a dynamic learning climate, and optimal use of slides. COVID-19 necessitated a switch to virtual coaching, and we studied the impact of virtual vs. in-person coaching. We added two additional coaches and studied the transferability of the coaching component. There was high uptake of the offered coaching. Participant surveys showed improved comfort levels with large-group presentations; had a sense that their presentation skills had improved; showed an increased likelihood of volunteering for future speaking opportunities; and were likely to recommend the program. Comparisons between virtual and in-person coaching showed no statistical difference, and there was little difference between the original coach and the subsequent two coaches. Qualitative assessments revealed broad areas in which faculty felt the program had been most impactful. The coaching program was well-received and resulted in concrete positive changes in presenter behavior. Conducting the coaching in a virtual manner may increase the feasibility of the intervention, as would expanding the coach pool.