Discussion and presentation...feedback on your answers

Here are our comments in relation to each of the positions that you might have taken. How do our thoughts compare with the rationale you offered for each response?
Showing enthusiasm within discussion and a presentation is a positive thing - it shows passion for the subject which might rub off on the audience. However, Rosie's strategy is a risky one as it (incorrectly) assumes that delivery style is more important than substance. As covered in this week's lecture, what you have to say is at least as important as how you say it. We think Rosie might be in danger of standing up to deliver her presentation before finding she doesn't have very much to say. And assuming Rosie's presentation style is enough to win over the audience, what might happen when she's questioned on specific issues that she hasn't spent time researching?
Hmmm. Thom wants to work in the business field but doesn't see why he needs to be able to deliver a presentation? If only he'd been in this week's lecture he'd have seen how discussion and presentation skills are integral to a whole range of degree subjects and career areas, irrespective of how much we like it! Assuming Thom knows his subject content, that might be enough to see him achieve a pass, however it seems like he's throwing marks away. A lack of enthusiasm for the presentation combined with an absence of thought as to how he might put his ideas across seems like a recipe for disaster.
Although the content of Ben's presentation might be satisfactory, we're worried that he's simply going to stand up and read off a script. We also wonder whether, instead of trying to be word perfect or to create elaborate presentation slides, he might spend time focusing on developing his knowledge of the subject so that he's confident that when he gets up to speak. We would also be a bit worried that, if he over rehearses the presentation, he'll end up going through the motions. Nevertheless, assuming the content of his slides and his script are strong, he might do OK.
Of the four students, we think Amy is best placed to deliver an effective presentation. As we covered during this week's lecture she has recognised the need to balance subject knowledge with the ability to share these ideas - after all, what's the use in having profound ideas if you're unable to help other see you vision? We also think she's going to make the best use of time available: she doesn't try to make a Powerpoint presentation or write a script before finalising the points she wants to put across. Amy might not be the best 'natural presenter' in the group, but her sensible approach to preparation make her the most likely to deliver an effective presentation.