I believe that slideshows are more helpful than harmful the majority of the time. From personal experience, I find it easier to pay attention to presentations or speeches when there is a visual involved. It allows me to see what the speaker is trying to get across and it allows me to narrow in my focus. It also helps me to remember more information because I can see it right in front of me. Although, there are times when slideshows can become a distraction. The majority of the time that isn't an issue. A slideshow is a great aid when a person makes it professional, organized, easy to see, and simple to follow. I don't think that slideshows stifle discussion or critical thinking, in fact I think it can encourage people to do those things. I believe that slideshows allow the audience to stay engaged, focused, and makes it easier to retain information.
I agree that it helps me narrow my focus. Sometimes a speaker says so many things that it's hard to take anything out of it, but it's nice when they pull out a couple important things from their speech.
I like how you added that a presentation can be a great aid when it is professional, organized, easy to see, and simple to follow. When presentations are used as tools instead of the main focus, it can be a real benefit! Fantastic work!
I completely agree! I also focus better with a slideshow.