Graduate School
Three-Minute Thesis Details
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The Graduate School's annual Three Minute Thesis Competition will take place at the
Joe Paul Theater on October 31 and November 1, 2024. The Three Minute Thesis (3MT庐)
is an academic research communication competition developed by the University of Queensland
in Australia. 3MT participants are asked to describe their thesis or dissertation
in a three-minute presentation, clearly conveying the complexities of their topic
and research to a nonacademic audience. The competition provides an excellent opportunity
for students to hone their 30-second elevator pitch and win monetary prizes while
doing so. 3MT is open to all graduate students, and students enrolled in 100% online
programs can participate virtually.
3MT Registration Deadline: Wednesday, October 23, 2024 at 5pm
- Grand Champion - $1,000
- Runner-Up - $750
- People's Choice - $500
- Each of the Eight Finalists - $250
- The presentation must describe current research. Research for which a degree was previously awarded or which was done at another institution is not allowed.
- A single (8 1/2" x 14鈥� landscape) static PowerPoint slide is required (no slide transitions, animations or 鈥渕ovement鈥� of any description, the slide is to be presented from the beginning of the oration).
- No additional electronic media (e.g. sound and video files) are permitted.
- No additional props (e.g. pointers, note cards, costumes, musical instruments, laboratory equipment) are permitted.
- Presentations are limited to three minutes maximum, and competitors exceeding three minutes are disqualified.
- Presentations are to be spoken word (e.g. no poems, raps or songs).
- Presentations are considered to have commenced when the presenter starts their presentation through movement or speech.
- The decision of the judges is final.
Comprehension and Content
- Did the presentation provide an understanding of the background to the research question being addressed and its significance?
- Did the presentation clearly describe the key results of the research including conclusions and outcomes?
- Did the presentation follow a clear and logical sequence?
- Were the thesis topic, key results, and research significance and outcomes communicated in language appropriate to a non-specialist audience?
- Did the speaker avoid scientific jargon, explain terminology and provide adequate background information to illustrate points?
- Did the presenter spend adequate time on each element of his/her presentation - or did the presenter elaborate for too long on one aspect or was the presentation rushed?
Engagement and Communication
- Did the oration make the audience want to know more?
- Was the presenter careful not to trivialize or generalize their research?
- Did the presenter convey enthusiasm for the research?
- Did the presenter capture and maintain the audience's attention?
- Did the speaker have sufficient stage presence, eye contact and vocal range; maintain a steady pace, and have a confident stance?
- Did the PowerPoint slide enhance the presentation - was it clear, legible, and concise?