Abstract
Ninety-eight youth participants, ages 9-17, involved in a public speaking event reported that preparation and presentation of a 5-12 minute demonstration or illustrated talk improved confidence, knowledge of a selected topic and skills in communicating, goal setting, organizing, working with others, and doing research. Positive benefits were reported from first-year as well as multi-year participants. Most youth surveyed indicated that they participated by choice and received adequate assistance in preparation for speaking. Similar results were found for a smaller group (N=20) involved in a non-competitive performing arts event. A randomly-selected group (N=37) interviewed about the extended effects of public speaking revealed that the experience helped them in school presentations, community leadership, and more in-depth involvement in specific topic areas. Implications of results for youth programming and engaging wider audiences of youth are discussed.
Recommended Citation
Silliman, Ben
(2009)
"Youth Views of Experiences and Benefits of
Public Speaking,"
Journal of Youth Development: Vol. 4:
Iss.
2, Article 4.
Available at:
https://open.clemson.edu/jyd/vol4/iss2/4
