gonna fail my college course

jamesr123

I'm Goin mad, It's a level 5 Fetac, I really liked the course and could do a lot of the work myself, I even have all the assignments completed.

The thing is i'v been told i'v to present a 15 minute speech in front of teachers and students whilst being recorded. I am absolutely disgusted considering this has nothing to do with the course or my chosen career.

I have always had terrible trouble communicating with people, keep to myself and thrive on doing my assignments.. I'm now gonna fail as I refuse to do it..

Just wondering does anyone know any alternative? surely a student can't be expected to do this?

freshpopcorn

Sorry to hear you are nervous, I think you might need to speak to your GP about this.
Other than that, what course is it?
Loads of jobs require you to speak in public to groups.
Its part of the course you need to do this prestation to pass, the lecturer will know that you'll be a bit nervous and will allow for this.. It'll be a shame to throw away what you've studied for.
A lot of college courses/fetac courses might have an assignment/module that mightn't seem relevant to you now but these things generally can help people in there future.

R.D. aka MR.D

As the other poster has said, a lot of jobs involve group speaking at some point. In fact, right now, im struggling to think of a job that wouldn't require that.

Why are you refusing to do it?
Is it because you think it's pointless or because you are scared?

If it's because it's pointless then i'm again struggling to think of a job where there aren't seemingly pointless tasks.

A good college course should prepare you for the real world and in the real world of jobs sometimes you have to do things that you don't want to do.

freshpopcorn

I had a read of your previous posts and going by these public speaking is very important in your future career. If your having this much difficult with it now about a presentation in college. You might need to speak to the guidance counsellor at your college.

hughesga

Interesting post.

First ill start off by saying i used to be literally teriffied of making presentations. I havnt done so many of them at all but what i can definitely tell you for a fact is that it gets easier.

Next off, learning to make good presentations and improving communications skills are never going to be wasted skills. At one point or another, whether its in a work related or social setting setting youll be required to make speeches.

Now theres a few key things to keep in mind here. Everybodys in the same boat. one of the key ways i improved my communication skills and courage is to watch you classmates, watch your best friend do it. Watch people on youtube do it, it doesnt have to be one of the best speakers in the world, watch normal people make normal speeches/presentations and see how they handle the pressure, what things you like about their style and what things you think they could improve on.

Some people talk too fast, some people seem to cocky, some people go around in circles with points, some people are far too nervous to be understood properly. People have seen it all before, its just somethng id recommend trying to master. Try turn one of your worst fears/hates into one of your greatest strengths/passions - seriously, believe in yourself, show confidence.

Its not your teachers fault, youll get this everywhere. And trust me, youre not the worst in the world. When you make presentations usually the first few arent great because you have to learn the art just like driving or painting. in a way the worse they go a the start the quicker youll master it.

Like i said youre not alone. If you want some advice or a chat just send me a pm and ill do my best to help you out with it. Try not drop out, i know its tough but you have to try weather the storm, champions dont quit when things get tough thats when they start to count their achievements. You should gain the most satisfaction from the conquering the tbings you find nost difficult. Next thing you know youll be a bdtter public speaker than obama. Believe

December2012

I get that your nervous but it's very childish to throw away this opportunity just because you feel you can't do the public speaking.

If you are bad at communication then this is an area you do need guidance and work on.

My advice to you is to get extra help - there are organisations like the toastmasters who will help with public speaking. We had some actors come into our college and help us.

public speaking was not a huge requirement for my qualifications, but communication was, it is for every career - there will always be a paper, a meeting, an interview and a presentation in most careers.

It's a problem lots of people need help with big ignore - after all we are brought up to not talk to talk to strangers. But it's vital in the business world.

A brief guide to structuring a presentation boils down to this:

1 - Tell them what you're going to tell them.
2. Tell them
3. Tell them what you've told them.

There is help there.

Sephiroth_dude

I guarantee you Op once you have this done,you will feel so much better about yourself and be glad you did it.

kbell

What's the course and career op?

Try to think of it like this, if your mate asked you to be his best man for his wedding I'm sure you'd have no problem getting up there and ripping him for 15 minutes!

It's not as bad as it sounds !

eyescreamcone

I think it's wrong to throw students in at the deep end.
Students should be trained how to speak in public (all courses).

You start of speaking for 5 mins on any topic in front of two people and work from there (with constructive criticism and encouragement at each stage)

beveragelady

I take it this is the communication module of the course. This module is a mandatory part of a few level 5 courses, and I think it's one of the most useful. The oral presentation is valuable because it's an opportunity to learn how to give a speech, rather than standing up and reading an essay.

Your teacher will show you how do the job properly. If you begin by refusing to participate, your teacher will focus on other students and you'll miss out. I'm sure the class has spent a lot of time on this already, ask your classmates for pointers. There are specific things your teacher is looking for, things like signposting and register and a certain level of research.

Take the time to choose a topic that really interests you as long as it's related to your course. Decide which areas of the topic you're going to talk about, and write it out. Read over it until you nearly know it off by heart, then start working from cards. Stay away from powerpoint, those speeches are usually disastrous. I understand that public speaking can be nerve-wracking, but when it's over and done with every single student I've ever had has said "That wasn't so bad, I can't believe I made such a big deal of it."

In any workplace these skills are useful. There's a reason this module is a part of so many courses. Out there in the real world if an employer asks you to take on a reasonable task, you don't get to simply dig your heels in and refuse.

thegreatgonzo

eyescreamcone wrote: »

I think it's wrong to throw students in at the deep end.
Students should be trained how to speak in public (all courses).

You start of speaking for 5 mins on any topic in front of two people and work from there (with constructive criticism and encouragement at each stage)

I get what you are saying but I don't really agree. Presentations are a big part of my course which I wasn't expecting (vet nursing). I had a big big fear of public speaking but in my 2nd week of college I had to do my first one and there was no hints or suggestions, just get on with it. The more times I've had to stand up and just do it the better I've become. I've made plenty of mistakes but I have improved enormously. I still get nervous but now I can control it. It's all about preparation.
Even if it doesn't seem important to your future career, I don't think it is good to know you have a fear of something and then avoid situations because of it. I think ultimately it is damaging to your self confidence to not face up to it and you may find yourself in future turning down promotions or other opportunities because of it.

sopretty

Will you be using powerpoint? Or will you be reading out of notes with no visual aids?

I remember being a complete and utter nervous wreck the first time I had to make a presentation in work. I sailed through it in the end, but not without some brilliant advice from a colleague.

1. If you are using a laptop and projector, make sure and double check all is working before you start the presentation. Also, make sure you're familiar with using the technology.

2. Stick to your notes - don't try to ad-lib it. 90% of the work is in the preparation i.e. making sure that you have clear thoughts/bullet points. Concise bullet points is the most effective means of communication for these sorts of presentations.

3. You could state at the beginning of the presentation that if questions arise during the presentation, that the individuals can take a note of them, and you'll answer them when you've finished the presentation (this will avoid you getting interrupted).

4. Don't be worrying. Everyone else in the class is going to have to do a presentation too!

5. Don't aim for making a brilliant, dazzling, mesmerising speech. Concise, clear points is what you're aiming for. Not some Obama-style performance.

6. As you get into your flow, you will relax. Don't worry if you go a little bit red at the beginning, or if your voice quivers or your mouth goes a little bit dry lol. They go away after a few seconds once you focus completely on what you're doing (in my case, reading bullet points off a slide!!!).

Apparently I did brilliantly in the end. Best of luck.

Stavro Mueller

What age are you? Because you sound like a teenager who is throwing a childish strop. Are you seriously going to blow your chances of getting a qualification and progressing in your career over this? You can rage all you want about this perceived injustice but it is a course requirement. Who are you to decide what should and shouldn't be part of the course? Tell me, what is your Plan B if you flunk this course ?

How about growing up and giving this a go? Look, most people don't like giving presentations. Especially when they're not used to giving them. Everyone else in your class will be in the same boat. Other posters here have given you some really good tips and advice. I suggest you take them and don't be a fool. The others here are taking a kinder line that I am so I'm throwing in an opposing point of view. Don't be stupid and blow this opportunity.

sopretty

cymbaline wrote: »

What are you? Because you sound like a teenager who is throwing a childish strop. Are you seriously going to blow your chances of getting a qualification and progressing in your career over this? You can rage all you want about this perceived injustice but it is a course requirement. Who are you to decide what should and shouldn't be part of the course? Tell me, what is your Plan B if you flunk this course ?

How about growing up and giving this a go? Look, most people don't like giving presentations. Especially when they're not used to giving them. Everyone else in your class will be in the same boat. Other posters here have given you some really good tips and advice. I suggest you take them and don't be a self-obsessed fool.

Cymbaline, I tried very hard to wriggle my way out of my first presentation at work. In the end, gentle persuasion and the bit of advice, got me through it. :cool:

woodchuck

jamesr123 wrote: »

I am absolutely disgusted considering this has nothing to do with the course or my chosen career.

Presentation skills are an important part of the vast majority of jobs. Even a lot of interviews these days require you to give a presentation.

jamesr123 wrote: »

I have always had terrible trouble communicating with people, keep to myself and thrive on doing my assignments..

This is an area in which you need improvement, all the more reason to do it.

jamesr123 wrote: »

I'm now gonna fail as I refuse to do it..

Just wondering does anyone know any alternative? surely a student can't be expected to do this?

First of all, I doubt whether or not you pass or fail your entire course hinges on this one presentation? But you would be an idiot to just refuse not to do it. By not doing it you get 0%. By doing it, you will automatically do better than 0%. Why wouldn't a student be expected to do this? I don't think I know of any course where having to give a presentation doesn't crop up at one point or another. If it's a course requirement, then yes, you have to do it (short of a medical reason maybe).

Look, everyone is extremely nervous the first time they have to do a presentation. Just make sure you put in the work and it won't go as bad as you think. Prepare your slides and prepare what you want to say. Flashcard are a good safey net if you think you're going to go blank, but make sure not to read directly from them. Some general tips:

- Make sure to have water next to you (dry mouth is common).
- Practice your presentation ahead of time with friends/family. You'll feel like a twat, but it's worth it, trust me.
- Watch your speed. Most people talk very fast, so make a conscious effort to slow down during it.
- Don't read directly from your slides or flashcards. Make sure to speak directly to the audience and make eye contact.
- Make sure your slides (if it's a powerpoint presentation?) aren't too cluttered. Each one should just have a few bullet points and pictures/diagrams are useful to hold peoples attention too. As a general rule of thumb, 1 slide = 1 minute of talking.

Remember OP, you're not the only one being asked to do this. Everyone is in the same boat and I bet a lot of them are just as nervous as you are. The best of luck.

Stavro Mueller

sopretty wrote: »

Cymbaline, I tried very hard to wriggle my way out of my first presentation at work. In the end, gentle persuasion and the bit of advice, got me through it. :cool:

Fair enough...there's plenty of gentle persuasion to be found on this thread

sopretty

Woodchuck, while I agree that speaking directly to the audience is the desired method, I believe though, in this case, for a beginner, to reduce nerves, I would strongly suggest STICKING to your notes. Remember, you are presenting information. You are not trying to enthral people with your brilliance. As a beginner, just presenting the information (which the OP will have researched in depth beforehand), is the goal.
The OP has said, they enjoy doing the assignments, so they should enjoy pulling the information together and organising it into bullet points to pass on to the audience.
Anything to make the entire thing less daunting!!

woodchuck

sopretty wrote: »

Woodchuck, while I agree that speaking directly to the audience is the desired method, I believe though, in this case, for a beginner, to reduce nerves, I would strongly suggest STICKING to your notes. Remember, you are presenting information. You are not trying to enthral people with your brilliance. As a beginner, just presenting the information (which the OP will have researched in depth beforehand), is the goal.
The OP has said, they enjoy doing the assignments, so they should enjoy pulling the information together and organising it into bullet points to pass on to the audience.
Anything to make the entire thing less daunting!!

Fair enough that it's better to get up there and stick to your notes than not get up there at all.

But if the OP does start to practice and it's not as bad as he/she thinks then it's something that could be worked on. Either way I really think it's something to keep in mind for future 'real life' presentations such as for an interview, as reading from notes isn't something that anyone should get into the habit of doing if it can be avoided.

Typer Monkey

As a previous poster alluded to OP if your ambition is to join the Gaurds then this is something you're going to have to deal with. There is lots of presentations required in Templemore and I can assure you no avoidance or tantrum throwing is tolerated. When you're out then essentially every time you go to court it's one big presentation.

There's some great advice above. Remember being brave isn't about not being afraid of anything, it's feeling the fear and doing it anyway

jamesr123

Lads, I'v read all your replies and appreciate the advice, but, I kinda started this thread so I can be advised on how to drop the speech and continue with the rest of the course to be honest.. I refuse to believe this is somthing that could effect my results and if so it's wrong..

i'v to make 2 seperate speeches one for communications and one for retail security.. I find it extremely unfair that i'm expected to present any speech atall... The Fetac courses need to be changed IMO.. I'll miss out on the speech but sure i'v heaps of other work done so it's just not fair on students...

I was only told about the presentations a few weeks ago and ever since then i'v had a deep dread everytime I think of it.. I actually have a lump in my throat as I write this.. I'm extremely anti-social, It's somthing that runs in the family.. I find it difficult to talk to people in everyday life and even attending the course is a challenge in itself so presenting a speech is not even a factor i'm even gonna consider..

I really am amazed that i'm expected to do this rubbish..

sopretty

jamesr123 wrote: »

Lads, I'v read all your replies and appreciate the advice, but, I kinda started this thread so I can be advised on how to drop the speech and continue with the rest of the course to be honest.. I refuse to believe this is somthing that could effect my results and if so it's wrong..

i'v to make 2 seperate speeches one for communications and one for retail security.. I find it extremely unfair that i'm expected to present any speech atall... The Fetac courses need to be changed IMO.. I'll miss out on the speech but sure i'v heaps of other work done so it's just not fair on students...

I was only told about the presentations a few weeks ago and ever since then i'v had a deep dread everytime I think of it.. I actually have a lump in my throat as I write this.. I'm extremely anti-social, It's somthing that runs in the family.. I find it difficult to talk to people in everyday life and even attending the course is a challenge in itself so presenting a speech is not even a factor i'm even gonna consider..

I really am amazed that i'm expected to do this rubbish..

Gosh, that's unfortunate.

The reality is this:

If you get a job as a security guard in a shop, will you be capable of confronting someone if you suspect them of wrong-doing?
Will you be able to stand up in a court of law, sitting beside judge, with a crowded court room all looking up at you, and give your evidence as to what you observed and what pursued?

If you get a job as a guard (not really recommended, given your statements that you're 'anti-social'), will you be able to stand up to a potential criminal for a start?
Will you then be able to go into a courtroom and give evidence against an accused, all the while being questioned by a judge to clarify bits of information again? All of this, again in front of your colleagues (fellow gardai, there for different cases) and a judge and a room full of onlookers and solicitors, looking to pick your presented evidence apart?

If not, then you're looking down the wrong career path. Seriously.

December2012

If it's part if the course then obviously this learning institute feels it's necessary for the job.

Can you see a way you could work in security without public speaking?

Either get professional help to deal with your social anxiety, or try any of the methods above, or seriously reconsider your career options.

Fluorescence

jamesr123 wrote: »

Lads, I'v read all your replies and appreciate the advice, but, I kinda started this thread so I can be advised on how to drop the speech and continue with the rest of the course to be honest.. I refuse to believe this is somthing that could effect my results and if so it's wrong..

i'v to make 2 seperate speeches one for communications and one for retail security.. I find it extremely unfair that i'm expected to present any speech atall... The Fetac courses need to be changed IMO.. I'll miss out on the speech but sure i'v heaps of other work done so it's just not fair on students...

I was only told about the presentations a few weeks ago and ever since then i'v had a deep dread everytime I think of it.. I actually have a lump in my throat as I write this.. I'm extremely anti-social, It's somthing that runs in the family.. I find it difficult to talk to people in everyday life and even attending the course is a challenge in itself so presenting a speech is not even a factor i'm even gonna consider..

I really am amazed that i'm expected to do this rubbish..

No one's going to advise you to not do the speech and either scrape a pass in your course or fail for not submitting mandatory module work.

You say you're extremely antisocial - maybe it's time to address that. Go visit a GP (and it's a big step when you're anxious, I know) and have a chat to see if everything's ok. They'll likely refer you to a counselor to help you learn the social skills you fundamentally need to succeed in your course and in the world.

Being a lone wolf doing all your project work alone is fine.. up to a point. I think you seriously need to consider the fact that your extreme aversion to this isn't entirely normal.


- Best wishes from a shy person

jamesr123

sopretty wrote: »

Gosh, that's unfortunate.

The reality is this:

If you get a job as a security guard in a shop, will you be capable of confronting someone if you suspect them of wrong-doing?
Will you be able to stand up in a court of law, sitting beside judge, with a crowded court room all looking up at you, and give your evidence as to what you observed and what pursued?

If you get a job as a guard (not really recommended, given your statements that you're 'anti-social'), will you be able to stand up to a potential criminal for a start?
Will you then be able to go into a courtroom and give evidence against an accused, all the while being questioned by a judge to clarify bits of information again? All of this, again in front of your colleagues (fellow gardai, there for different cases) and a judge and a room full of onlookers and solicitors, looking to pick your presented evidence apart?

If not, then you're looking down the wrong career path. Seriously.

Being honest the main reason I'm doing this course is to progress into higher education. I also picked the course because I love learning about the law, courts and the function of the justice system.. All my tutors have encouraged me to go further and suggested that I have an obvious interest in the subject..

I was never told about public speaking.. In my mind I assumed these courses were purely theory..

I'm sure a doctors note could cover me for this?

Fluorescence wrote: »

No one's going to advise you to not do the speech and either scrape a pass in your course or fail for not submitting mandatory module work.

You say you're extremely antisocial - maybe it's time to address that. Go visit a GP (and it's a big step when you're anxious, I know) and have a chat to see if everything's ok. They'll likely refer you to a counselor to help you learn the social skills you fundamentally need to succeed in your course and in the world.

Being a lone wolf doing all your project work alone is fine.. up to a point. I think you seriously need to consider the fact that your extreme aversion to this isn't entirely normal.


- Best wishes from a shy person

Thanks for the reply,

It might not be normal but it's something i'v accepted over the years.. I'm a young adult and never been to a pun or nightclub and wouldn't go either.. I just keep to myself.. Why I'm being punished for it I just don't know.....

sopretty

jamesr123 wrote: »

Being honest the main reason I'm doing this course is to progress into higher education. I also picked the course because I love learning about the law, courts and the function of the justice system.. All my tutors have encouraged me to go further and suggested that I have an obvious interest in the subject..

I was never told about public speaking.. In my mind I assumed these courses were purely theory..

I'm sure a doctors note could cover me for this?

Thanks for the reply,

It might not be normal but it's something i'v accepted over the years.. I'm a young adult and never been to a pun or nightclub and wouldn't go either.. I just keep to myself.. Why I'm being punished for it I just don't know.....

While it's great that you have an interest in the law, you really need to address this issue you have now with public speaking. There are very few careers where it's not required. I would address this now. Your course now is possibly a great way to address it. Talk to your tutor about your fears and they may help you.

Adamantium

Don't think of it as nerve wracking, think of it as thrilling. Think of it as a stupid sham, how beneath you it is, how fluffy it is, and you'll waffle through it like the alphabet.

Also regarding Law, I can't in good conscience let this slide.
Have you looked at the supply of Law graduates and the demand for them. It's apocalyptic.
Do something worthwhile such as mech engineering, petroloeum engineering.

Remember in the real world, It's supply and demand for your skills. Nothing more, nothing less.

Look at I kid I understand it's not easy to make a speech, unfairness is rife in the world. Making your speeches is not that thing. It's not unfairness, It's reality.Do it, make a balls of it (or don't preferably) get it over it move on.

It may not be politically correct what I said, but being PC is nothing more than molly coddling you from the truth.

You'll have bigger fish to fry after FETAC. I guarantee it.

Bananaleaf

cymbaline wrote: »

What age are you? Because you sound like a teenager who is throwing a childish strop. Are you seriously going to blow your chances of getting a qualification and progressing in your career over this? You can rage all you want about this perceived injustice but it is a course requirement. Who are you to decide what should and shouldn't be part of the course? Tell me, what is your Plan B if you flunk this course ?

How about growing up and giving this a go? Look, most people don't like giving presentations. Especially when they're not used to giving them. Everyone else in your class will be in the same boat. Other posters here have given you some really good tips and advice. I suggest you take them and don't be a fool. The others here are taking a kinder line that I am so I'm throwing in an opposing point of view. Don't be stupid and blow this opportunity.

I think this post clearly demonstrates the lack of understanding the rest of us have when it comes to those who suffer from anxiety over public speaking.

OP I suggest you google 'Toastmasters Ireland' and inform yourself on what they are about and how they can help you.

This is a problem that won't go away unless you grab it by the horns.

The very best of luck

sopretty

I would also suggest that you take some time some day to go into your local district court to observe what happens. You'll need to get in early, before the court session starts (can't remember whether it's 10am or 10.30 am that they start), but if you were there for about 9.50am in the morning, you will probably get a seat. You could ask your course tutor for information specific to your own location.

It's interesting to observe what goes on in a court. It might change your opinion on the type of job you feel swayed towards or against.

Any randomer can show up at a district court hearing.

You will have a much better idea then of how relevant public speaking is to your area of interest.

freshpopcorn

I think you need to discuss this issue with a GP who might refer you onto somebody with more experience in the field.
I know people who have studied law, medicine, social care, social science, mechanical engineering, electonical engineering, vetenary, agricultural courses, hospitality management, primary teahing, hairdressing, beutican, secitarial courses the list goes on all of these courses involve presentation. Be it in a University, IT, local college, fetac college.
A big part of fetac courses is preparing people for the real world be it to go onto college or into a job and this is why it involves speeches so there rubbish not they benefit a lot of people.

thegreatgonzo

jamesr123 wrote: »

I was only told about the presentations a few weeks ago and ever since then i'v had a deep dread everytime I think of it.. I actually have a lump in my throat as I write this.. I'm extremely anti-social, It's somthing that runs in the family.. I find it difficult to talk to people in everyday life and even attending the course is a challenge in itself so presenting a speech is not even a factor i'm even gonna consider..

I really am amazed that i'm expected to do this rubbish..

It isn't rubbish. Public speaking is a useful skill and that's why most courses nowadays include a presentation somewhere.
You really need to confront your fears if you want to be successful in life otherwise you are just going to be half living, avoiding any situation where you think you might have interact with people. There is help out there.

jamesr123

thegreatgonzo wrote: »

It isn't rubbish. Public speaking is a useful skill and that's why most courses nowadays include a presentation somewhere.

You really need to confront your fears if you want to be successful in life otherwise you are just going to be half living, avoiding any situation where you think you might have interact with people. There is help out there.

I dont need help.. I'm happy as I am..

sopretty wrote: »

While it's great that you have an interest in the law, you really need to address this issue you have now with public speaking. There are very few careers where it's not required. I would address this now. Your course now is possibly a great way to address it. Talk to your tutor about your fears

I disagree with that. I know loads of people who work and have never had to present a speech in their lives.. Also the tutors are no help.. they'll just fob me off with the usual ''it'll be grand'' ****.e..


I'll go to the doctor and see if I can get a note from him.. hopefully that'll do the trick. If not, i'll just fail it... I'm sure I can go to college as a mature student next year so it shouldnt affect me all that much..

sopretty

jamesr123 wrote: »

I dont need help.. I'm happy as I am..










I disagree with that. I know loads of people who work and have never had to present a speech in their lives.. Also the tutors are no help.. they'll just fob me off with the usual ''it'll be grand'' ****.e..


I'll go to the doctor and see if I can get a note from him.. hopefully that'll do the trick. If not, i'll just fail it... I'm sure I can go to college as a mature student next year so it shouldnt affect me all that much..

What course are you hoping to study next year?

Big Bag of Chips

jamesr123, as you seem to not want help from the thread anymore, stating you are happy as you are, and have come to a decision on how to avoid the presentation, I'll lock the thread now.

All the best