Graduate School
Three-Minute Thesis Details
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The Graduate School's annual Three Minute Thesis Competition will be held at the Joe
Paul Theater on November 9 and 10, 2023. The Three Minute Thesis (3MT®) is an academic
research communication competition developed by The University of Queensland, Australia.
3MT competitors are asked to explain their thesis or dissertation in a three-minute
presentation; effectively communicating the complexity of their topic and research
to a non-academic audience. The competition is a great opportunity for students to
hone their 30-second elevator pitch and win prizes while doing so.
During the preliminary competitions, students will compete in one of the following four categories:
- Physical Sciences and Mathematics
- Social and Educational Sciences and Business
- Arts and Humanities
- Life, Health and Environmental Sciences
- Grand Champion - $1,000
- Runner-Up - $750
- People's Choice - $500
- Each of the Eight Category Winners - $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” landscape) static PowerPoint slide is required (no slide transitions, animations or “movement” 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?