Presentation software, Webcass and multimedia presentations are visual aids delivered through computer teaching. Using these visual aids effectively requires advanced planning and preparation for the content and its delivery. Visual aids should focus the attention and stimulate the audience while illustrating complex concepts. Visual aids should not be too elaborate or overly detailed. Presenters should ensure the compatibility of the visual aid and the equipment available on the presentation date. Presenters should also check sight lines for the audience to ensure visibility from all angles.
A basic guideline for the use of visual aids through computer teaching is one clear visual for one topic. For example, using pictures of cows, horses and dogs for the topic of "the role of a veterinarian" is not clear. A picture of a veterinarian listening to a dog's heart is clear. For presentation software the same clarity rule applies. Each slide should contain only one topic.
Inconsistent visual aids are confusing for the audience. Consistent visual aids utilize the same font, type size and heading format throughout the presentation. Consistent use of a small number of contrasting colors is also important.
A computer is not a teacher and visual aids delivered through computer teaching do not replace teaching. Concise visual aids supplement a presentation by providing the key points in a visual format. Providing a handout version of these concise key concepts at the outset of the presentation allows the audience to engage in active listening rather than note taking.