Andrew Smith’s article discrediting PowerPoint was surprising (Opinion, 24 September). It made no attempt to open up the possibilities afforded by the software, merely assuming that PowerPoint delivery is always lightweight and dependent on bullet points.
Of course PowerPoint can allow the lecturer to communicate deeply rooted knowledge. The difficulty comes when there are too many words projected on a screen and the listener is torn between reading and listening. A lone word on a slide can lead to exploration of different intellectual and imaginative ideas. An image can open up new horizons. A sudden burst of noise – as, for example, a burst of electronically contrived applause – can make students laugh. Ideas connect to memory and are ready for debate. Students go away keen to develop their arguments.
As a lecturer, I look on the delivery of a PowerPoint lecture as akin to a performance, not in any facile way but as a powerful means of communication. I know plenty of students and colleagues who also find PP an invaluable learning tool.
Dr Ann Nugent
Senior lecturer in dance, University of Chichester
