Create powerful presentations with IU Kokomo microcredential

KOKOMO, Ind. -Looking to sharpen your communication and presentation skills?

This fall, you can equip yourself for professional success with a new offering from Indiana University Kokomo's Achieve Improve Master (AIM) microcredential program.

Participants will join Kersten Brunner, adjunct instructor in business, for an asynchronous online class, Essentials of Powerful Presentations. Beginning October 22, the program will explore effective professional communication techniques in a supportive environment.

"It's going to help them learn from the ground up how to be effective, and present confidently and with purpose," Brunner said, adding that people from high school and college students to those in business can benefit from the skills she will lead.

"Most people in business or some kind of corporate role are going to be presenting at some point, and students will make presentations throughout their education. This is for anyone who wants to become more confident speaking in public."

Brunner - who earned a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and Communication and Culture and a Master of Business Administration from the IU Kelley School of Business - developed the microcredential, which includes seven progressive modules that guide the student to develop a structured, high-quality presentation with individualized instructor feedback to improve delivery.

Students will do a makeover of provided slides, learn how to use visual cues like graphs, charts and branding, discuss use of voice and body language, engaging with an audience, and handling questions and answers, among other skills.

"The biggest thing I hope they take away is confidence and a perspective that it's all about connecting with their audience," Brunner said. "I hope they gain the skills and knowledge to understand who their audience is, what the audience wants, and how to tailor their message to the audience, so they walk away thinking 'Wow, that was a powerful presentation.'"

Registration is open at go.iu.edu/8u7m. Cost is $175, and includes a verified skills digital badge from IU Kokomo, which can be used on LinkedIn or in a digital portfolio.

The session is part of IU Kokomo's AIM program, which offers non-credit-bearing microcredentials called badges. Microcredentials are competencies or certifications in a topic area that can be used to upskill and advance in interpersonal skills or technology, or to equip people to take on new roles or leverage new tools.

IU Kokomo has previously offered microcredentials on topics including Faith Community Nursing, Essentials of Leadership, and Robert's Rules of Order. Leah Nellis, vice chancellor for innovation and special projects, said additional microcredential programs will also be available in fall 2025. Individuals can enroll directly in existing microcredential programs. However, programs can also be created upon request to meet the needs of local businesses and organizations.

AIM offerings can range from brief programs to year-long or semester-long series. They can be delivered in person, by video conference, online, or in a hybrid format.

For more information, contact Nellis at [email protected].

Education is KEY at Indiana University Kokomo.