Introduction

Over two intensive days, the Department of Information and Communication Technology successfully hosted the "Effective Communication for Undergraduates" workshop at TAR UMT. Attended by 48 undergraduate students from various years and programs (Foundation to Degree Year 3), representing a strong 94.12% attendance rate, the event proved to be a highly valuable and engaging experience. Held across the Function Room, Conference Room, Block W006A, and Block Y001, the workshop delivered on its promise to equip students with vital communication skills crucial for their academic journey and future careers. 

Objectives

The primary objective of this workshop was clear and impactful:

●        To provide participants with the essential tools and build their confidence to significantly enhance their communication abilities.

Based on observations and participant interactions across both days, this objective was successfully met. Students visibly grew in confidence, were more willing to share ideas, and actively applied the theoretical concepts learned during the sessions into practical exercises, demonstrating a tangible improvement in their communication skills and a proactive approach to learning. 

Event Details

Day 1 Highlights: Laying the Foundation (March 28th)

Day 1 kicked off with registration and an energetic start led by Mr. Benny Chia and Ms. Chaycie Ng, setting a positive tone. The morning focused on core principles, featuring insightful sessions:

●         "Organise Your Speech": Mr. Ramdas Nayar shared powerful techniques for structuring speeches for maximum audience impact.

●      "Stand Out" & "Speak Up": Mr. Benny Chia encouraged participation and confidence-building, while Ms. Keny Tai explored the nuances of tone and pitch, inviting    students on stage for practical demonstrations.

●         "Knowing Your Communication Style": Mr. Benny Chia helped students understand their individual communication preferences.

The afternoon transitioned into highly interactive breakout sessions facilitated by experienced mentors. Students engaged in:

●     Icebreaker Activities: Fostering comfort and collaboration within groups.

    ●    Impromptu Speeches: Providing a platform for students to practice speaking spontaneously, receiving constructive feedback from facilitators and peers in a supportive environment.

Day 2 Highlights: "Speak Up, Stand Out" - Putting Skills into Practice (March 29th)

Building on the foundation of Day 1, the second day adopted the theme "Speak Up, Stand Out," focusing intensely on practical application and overcoming common public speaking hurdles. Experienced trainers guided students through:

●        Addressing Stage Fright: Practical techniques like deep breathing, visualization, and confidence-building exercises were shared and practiced.

●        Mastering Speech Structure: Reinforcing the importance of a clear introduction, body, and conclusion for impactful delivery.

●        Voice Modulation & Body Language: Exploring how tone, pitch, pace, and non-verbal cues significantly enhance presentation effectiveness.

●        Impromptu Speaking Practice: Further honing quick thinking and fluency with spontaneous speaking exercises and immediate feedback.

●        Interactive Role-Playing: Allowing participants to apply newly learned skills in simulated real-world scenarios.

Throughout the two days, participant engagement was exceptional. Students didn't just passively listen; they actively: 

●        Stepped Forward: Voluntarily participating in on-stage demonstrations and introductions (Day 1).

●        Spoke Up: Delivering impromptu speeches in small groups, showing increasing confidence (Day 1 & 2).

●        Collaborated: Engaging enthusiastically in group icebreakers and discussions (Day 1).

●        Practiced and Applied: Actively attempting to integrate theoretical knowledge into practical exercises and role-playing scenarios (Day 1 & 2).

●        Gave and Received Feedback: Constructively critiquing peers and absorbing feedback from facilitators (Day 1 & 2).

●        Competed Enthusiastically: Showcasing their improved skills in the final public speaking round (Day 2).

Day 2 culminated in an exciting final public speaking competition. Mentors from each breakout room selected two finalists, leading to a thrilling showcase of talent. The finalists, cheered on by their supportive teams, demonstrated remarkable improvement and flair, exceeding expectations and highlighting the effectiveness of the workshop. The top four performers were awarded trophies and books, celebrating their outstanding progress. 

Achievements

Students left the workshop equipped with:

●        Increased Confidence: Overcoming apprehension and feeling more self-assured in speaking situations.

●        Practical Structuring Skills: Knowing how to organize thoughts and content logically for clear communication.

●        Enhanced Delivery Techniques: Understanding and applying voice modulation and purposeful body language.

●        Improved Impromptu Speaking: Developing the ability to think and speak effectively on the spot.

●        Understanding Communication Styles: Recognizing their own style and adapting to others.

●        The Value of Practice & Feedback: Appreciating the role of application and constructive criticism in skill development.

Conclusions

The "Effective Communication for Undergraduates" workshop was overwhelmingly successful. The high attendance, active engagement, positive feedback ("gained confidence," "understand speech organization," "improve abilities," "appreciated hands-on approach"), and the visible skill development culminating in the final competition underscore its value. The event effectively met its objective of equipping our students with essential communication skills, paving the way for their future academic and professional success.