The Assertion-Evidence approach for lecture slides and presentations

[jamiepopeauthor]

Several years ago, I attended a workshop on approaches for educational Power Point presentations. I was intrigued and impressed by examples and the pedagogy behind the “Assertion-Evidence” approach. Rather than a topic heading on the slide, this format uses an assertion statement to make a point – and builds a presentation around messages rather than topics. The assertion is a statement or sentence that expresses the primary focus or takeaway from that slide. For example, rather than a topic heading that says, “Blood Glucose Regulation”, the assertion would be “Blood glucose levels are maintained through the actions of pancreatic hormones”. The “evidence” would be bullet points, a visual image, or infographic that supports the assertion. The assertion does not need to be repeated in the body of the slide. For my own classes and as part of my textbook instructor resources for Nutrition for a Changing World, I adapted the “normal” (and good!) slides to incorporate the Assertion-Evidence approach as an alternative. Thus, as currently found in Launchpad instructor resources, educators have the choice of topic-based slides or Assertion-Evidence (these are currently titled for each chapter or spotlight with my name as “jamiepope_lectureslides_ncw2e….”). Both can be adapted and edited to meet individual instructor’s style and learning goals. Here are a couple of links with more information about the Assertion-Evidence approach. I’d also be happy to share an example via email if you’d reach out to me at jamie.pope@vanderbilt.edu. Best!
https://www.assertion-evidence.com/
https://speakingaboutpresenting.com/design/makeover-bullet-point-slide/