PowerPoint can be an effective interactive teaching tool if used properly, but it also has some drawbacks if overused or used passively. When used interactively with activities like questions, games, and focusing exercises, it can help students engage with and process information. However, it tends to oversimplify information if it becomes the sole delivery method with too many bullet points and not enough discussion. The key is to use PowerPoint to supplement other materials and activities, not replace discussion or other learning methods.

1. PowerPoint as an Interactive Teaching Tool By Geoffrey Cain

2. A Prelude The real danger is not that computers will begin to think like men, but that men will begin to think like computers. - Sydney J. Harris

3. The Problem Breaks thoughts up into discreet entities Does not present the whole picture A single tool used to solve all problems Typically, too much information given on each slide Overly simplifies information Passive delivery model (creates an “audience” instead of a class) Temptation to use distracting sounds and animation Encourages the use of general headings instead of descriptions of real problems Presenters tend to read off the slides and turn their backs to the “audience” Too many bullet points – not enough information

4. Then Why Use Powerpoint? To express the organization of thoughts; not impose an organization To create opportunities for interactivity To deliver multimodal learning content

5. Opening Slides: Take a moment to reflect on your experience of PowerPoint. Think of a negative example and a positive example and share with your neighbor and the class.

6. Problem-Solving Slides: Slide contains a question and the answer is left blank for the students to answer.

7. Non-Linear PowerPoint Slides Three categories that are best understood together. Related information

8. Focusing Activity Slides Think about how you might apply what you have learned today in your particular discipline. List as many characteristics of a good lecture that you can.

9. Questioning Slides: Questions? Come up with one test question based on this lecture to stump your partner.

10. The Blank Slide

11. The Game Slide Jeopardy

12. Mnemonic Visual Slides Illustrations , animations, visuals, and sounds should be used sparingly and only to reinforce the lesson.

13. Final Thoughts… Powerpoint is a visual medium. It is used most effectively as an aid for your students. Use dense handouts or text books, and use ppt to outline or process the information.