Round Robin Evaluations - The Fast Track to Public Speaking

" Round Robin" evaluations vis-a-vis only one evaluator per speech is the fast track to better public speaking. Here's why: the speaker gets the benefit of multiple perspectives. It's the most fun when one member tells another one " you're wrong and here's why".

The definition of a round robin evaluation exercise is when all members of a toastmaster meeting comment on a speech instead of just one. I was a member of ACE toastmasters # 8119 in Cincinnati which places emphasis on this format. They trade off many of the usual agenda items. After the evaluator gives their three minute evaluation, they go around the room for additional comments. Each member gets one minute. The rule is you can't repeat or embellish on what another member has said. You can add a comment or just pass.

Proof of the efficacy of this format - speakers from other clubs who had to hone a speech for either a contest or business were eager to practice their presentations at ACE.

In my opinion, round robin evaluations are a more productive use of meeting time than time spent on voting.

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