Practical guide 8: Presenting the results

Where children and their families have participated in the research project, we will provide opportunities for them to be involved in the presentation of the research findings. We will ensure that the contributions of children and their families to the research project are acknowledged and that they are compensated for their contributions.

Participation can help to increase knowledge transfer and change the attitudes of those affected by the research. This practical guide aims to provide researchers with suggestions on how we engage children and their families, taking into account their strengths and areas where they may need more support. These suggestions are relevant for individuals with and without communication difficulties. However, it is likely that further consideration will be needed to support those who need alternative communication.

Before the presentation

• Ensure that payment of conference registration fees (if necessary), transportation and other expenses are paid for the presenter(s).
• Consider compensation for the presenter's time.
• Discuss with the presenter the role in the presentation and the extent to which they want to be involved.
• Provide support in producing slides (if needed), for example templates, help with writing and adding images/videos.
• Give clear instructions on layout, content of slides and time for the presentation (e.g. maximum three points per slide).
• Provide an opportunity for the presenter to give feedback on the material you present together.
• Provide an opportunity to practice the presentation.
• Discuss with the presenter what support is required during the presentation (e.g. written script, visual aids such as clock/timer).
• Discuss with the presenter, how questions from the auditorium should be handled (e.g. during the presentation, at the end, give time to consider answers to questions, send questions through to be presented before the presentation to allow for preparation).
• Make sure the presenter knows what to expect on the day of the presentation (location of the presentation, where you will meet, who will attend, where there is a quiet space they can go to before and after the presentation).
• Discuss with the person how they want to be introduced.
• Discuss with the person if they want an advocate/support person present during the presentation.
• Send a message the night before or morning of the presentation as a reminder.
• Ask the presenter if they may be disturbed by, for example, noise, lights and discuss ways to minimize these or if there are other factors that may trigger stress in the individual.

At the venue

• If possible, have a rehearsal of the presentation at the venue with the equipment available there.
• Check if the lighting or other features of the environment need to be changed in any way.
• Make sure the presenter knows where the venue for the presentation is and where the refreshments are.

During the presentation

• Stick to the plan you have made with the presenter (e.g. they will have a much greater need for structure and security than experienced presenters). It is too late to move or change things at the last minute!
• If the presenter wishes to have a support person with them (in addition to you), ensure that the support persons are introduced to the audience and make sure they have worked out signals together about when support is needed etc.
• Offer an email address at the end of the presentation so that questions can be sent to you.

After the presentation

• Give feedback to the presenter on their presentation and follow up with an email.
• Thank the presenter for their contribution and time and follow up in writing.
• Pass on any positive feedback to the presenter after the presentation via email or phone.
• Ensure that transportation home is readily available after the presentation.
• Check if the presenter is willing to present in the future and ask for suggestions for improvement for the future.