VoxMasters Recap: Group Facilitation

VoxMasters allows students to practice impromptu public speaking in a comfortable and casual environment. At weekly, open meetings, attendees can speak extemporaneously on topics and get feedback from their peers. Read more about the Rockefeller Center's student discussion groups here.

VoxMasters is a dynamic group of students brought together by a common desire to become more
confident public speakers. We meet every Wednesday evening from 6:00 to 7:00 pm at the Rockefeller Center to practice extemporaneous speeches on topics such as "Introducing a Speaker" or "Elevator Pitches." Furthermore, VoxMasters is a safe and friendly environment where students can receive constructive feedback on their public speaking skills. Last but not least, there is always free dinner!

At a typical meeting, students will arrive and have dinner as we introduce the week’s topic and explain best practices on speech delivery. Students have approximately ten minutes to prepare a two-minute speech and then, one-by-one, each student delivers their speech in front of the group and receives feedback from everyone. VoxMasters stands out because it is the only group on campus that allows students to practice and receive constructive feedback on their public speaking skills.

Attendees hone their group facilitation skills at a VoxMasters session.

Last week, we had a session on facilitating group discussions with over fifteen students in attendance. Voxmasters Student Program Assistants Megan Mishra '17 and James Chin Th'15 kicked off the session by demonstrating various group facilitation techniques. These techniques included polling the audience as well as having audience members brainstorm ideas before having the audience pair up to share their thoughts. After the brief illustration of group facilitation best practices, students took the stage one-by-one and practiced a few effective group facilitation techniques. Chad Bergman '14 commented, "I was surprised by how these straightforward group facilitation techniques can change the energy level of the social space almost instantly."

Our upcoming session on Wednesday, February 25th will take place in the Class of 1930 Room from 6:00 to 7:00 pm. This session will focus on "Call to Action" speeches because you never know when you will be given the opportunity to convince someone to join a movement, sign a petition or go on a date. We look forward to seeing you at VoxMasters to practice giving an attention-grabbing "Call to Action" speech!

-Written by VoxMasters Discussion Leaders Megan Mishra '17 and James Chin Th'15.