Oral Assignments at OISE
This Resource Page will help you:
- Understand different types of oral assignments at OISE
- Know what instructors are typically looking for.
Introduction
Oral assignments are a common component of many courses at OISE. They are tasks or projects that require you to demonstrate your knowledge and skills orally rather than through written work.
The goals of these assignments are very similar to those of written assignments. The main difference is the format in which you will present your work, which allows you to develop academic and professional oral communication and interaction skills.
This page offers an overview of oral assignments at OISE and tips for approaching them effectively.
What Are the Different Types of Oral Assignments?
Oral assignments at OISE can include:
In-class discussions usually include several students discussing their views on a certain topic. Then, a representative will report to the whole class and share the group's perspectives. These tasks are frequent and may not be always graded.
You will prepare and deliver a presentation individually or with a group on a specific topic (e.g., course readings, research topics or proposals, final paper topic), often using visual aids like slides.
Sometimes one or several students need to lead a class or group discussion based on a certain topic or question. You and your group members may need to read relevant articles and prepare your perspectives beforehand for the discussion.
Pre-recorded submissions can be videos, narrated slides (a presentation), or audio and should be uploaded by a deadline instead of presented live. This format lets you rehearse, polish delivery, and produce clear visuals and sound while demonstrating your knowledge and communication skills. Instructors grade the recording for content, organization, and presentation quality,
Why do Oral Assignments Matter?
Oral communication skills are essential in both academic and professional contexts. Therefore, oral assignments are an opportunity to develop your voice as a professional and a scholar. Oral assignments can help you build your public speaking skills, confidence, and listening skills.
Whether you're presenting a research idea, leading a class discussion, or collaborating on a group project, oral assignments give you a space to think out loud, share your perspective, and engage others in meaningful dialogue.
These assignments help you:
Reflect on and engage with the course literature
You may need to summarize articles, make connections between ideas, and/or explain practical implications—all of which deepen your learning. You might be asked to discuss your experience in relation to course readings, connecting theory and practice.
Prepare for public speaking
Oral assignments challenge you to communicate in a concise, clear and engaging way. This is a valuable skill not only for classroom presentations, but also for teaching, facilitating, consulting, or speaking in academic and professional settings.
Build confidence speaking in academic settings
Many students find public speaking intimidating at first. Through practice and supportive environments, oral assignments offer a safe space to take risks, learn from mistakes, and gain confidence in your ability to speak up and contribute to discussions.
Receive feedback to support your learning
Oral assignments, like any assignment, include feedback—from peers, instructors, or both. This feedback helps you identify strengths and areas to develop.
What are Instructors Looking For?
- Clarity and organization of ideas
- Relevance and depth of content
- Engagement with course readings or research
- Delivery style, including pacing, voice, and nonverbal communication
- Time management and adherence to guidelines