tone of your voice
when speaking or lecturing, it is important to avoid becoming boring with a mono tone voice.
Even in a world saturated with communications technology, we do not often, or ever, take the time to really listen to how we sound to others. Some persons may provide verbal feedback; i.e. tell or note how you sound to others, but this is insufficient. Our voice pattern communicates a lot about us, and we regularly change it to suit different situations. In a classroom setting, it may be best to develop or use an authoritative tone of voice. This need not be aggressive, i.e. in the manner of a drill instructor, etc. I recommend that you record yourself and take time to listen to how you sound. And, if possible, to get some training through a coach, etc.
Steve,
yes, our tone of voice is very important for clarity & to help put students at ease.
Dr. Ryan Meers
our vocals can help make the student comfortable enough to recieve what we are teaching.
Sarrah,
you are right that the online environment gives a whole new appreciation for the use of voice & keeping attention this way.
Dr. Ryan Meers
My situation is a bit different than most and requires more emphasis on "voice". I teach online so my students rely entirely on the sound of my voice. I can share my screen but they never actually see me. This makes it even more imperative that the voice I use is engaging and easy on the ears.
Changing the tone of your voice randomly from loud to soft may help keep the attention of the students.
Juanito,
great points made here. One of the things that I emphasize with my speech students is the use of vocal variety including volume, rate, pictch, etc. All of this helps make lectures/presentations much more interesting.
Dr. Ryan Meers
The instructors tone of voice during a lecture plays a very improtant role in keeping the undivided attention of the entire class. It can also keep the students focused on the subject matter. The instructor must speak in a clear manner making sure that he or she does not talk too fast or too slow. You would rather be loud than soft of voice at this time. Using different intonations to emphasize certain words or points is very effective. This should go with the instructor's gestures and body language. Students like to see an animated teacher who speaks and teaches with great enthusiasm and vigor.
Thanks,
Dr. JMalana
James,
I agree completely. Our vocal tone & variety often communicate just as much, if not more, excitement than do gestures or other factors.
Dr. Ryan Meers
You do not want to be mono-tone, your voice should show excitement and enthusiasim about the subject that is being discussed.
Mary Jane,
This is very true. Vocal variety is one of the best ways to engage our audience & to make our presentations more interesting.
Dr. Ryan Meers
