Virtual 3 Minute Thesis Competition

• WHAT ARE THE RULES?

  • Presentations are limited to 3 minutes and competitors exceeding 3 minutes are disqualified.
  • Presentations are considered to have commenced when a presenter starts their presentation through speech (timing does not include the 3MT title slide and commences from when the competitor starts speaking, not the start of the video).
  • Videos must meet the following criteria:
    
    Filmed on the horizontal;
    
    Filmed on a plain background (if possible);
    
    Filmed from a static position; and
    Filmed from one camera angle.
  • 
    
    Optional inclusions in video (if editing)
    
    - 3MT title slide
    
    - 3MT PowerPoint slide (top right corner/right side/cut to)
    
    - A single static slide is permitted in the presentation (no slide transitions, animations or ‘movement’ of any description). This can be visible continuously, or ‘cut to’ (as many times as you like) for a maximum of 1 minute or submitted via email if not included in the presentation.
  • Minimize environmental distractions.
  • No additional electronic media (sounds, animations, videos).
  • No props, costumes, or gimmicks.
  • Videos are due: October 15, 2020
  • Please note: Editing of videos to include a 3MT title slide and 3MT PowerPoint slide are optional and will not be scored negatively if this step is not completed. However please provide both the 3MT title slide and 3MT PowerPoint slide upon submission of video.
  • Please note: competitors *will not* be judged on video/recording quality or editing capabilities (optional inclusions). Judging will focus on the presentation, ability to communicate research to a non-specialist audience, and 3MT PowerPoint slide.
  • Please note: After each competition round competitors have the option to either submit their current presentation or re-record and submit a new presentation for entry into the next round.

• HOW DO I PREPARE AND SUBMIT MY VIDEO?

  • First, be sure you have registered by the registration deadline.
  • Ensure phones and tablets are turned onto their side so the video is filmed horizontally not vertically.
  • Dark environments impact the overall quality of your video because cameras do not perform well in dim lighting. Ensuring you are well lit guarantees the camera and therefore, your audience, can see you clearly. Look for a room in your home that has lots of natural light. If you are using light from a window, ensure you are facing towards the window so light falls on you directly.
  • When filming video at home, ensure you choose a very quiet environment where you have as much control over the sound as possible. For example, choose a small room where you have the ability to close all doors and windows. Make sure any noisy electronics in the room such as fans, air conditioners, computers, phones and possibly even your fridge are temporarily turned off. These are much louder in video than you may think and are very distracting to your audience!
  • Be aware of any audible interruptions you don’t have control over such as airplanes, lawnmowers, and cars. Consider filming during a quiet time of day such as early in the morning when there are likely to be less interruptions. If there are audio interruptions during your recording, do not continue. Wait it out and try again at a later point!
  • Aim for a clean, plain wall as your background, completely free of visual distractions from the waist up where you will be framing your shot.
  • Be aware of your eye movement. Maintain eye contact with the camera lens as though they were a person in the audience watching you present live.
  • Upload your video to YouTube and be sure it is set to private.  Email the YouTube link to Emily Redd  redd@etsu.edu by the submission deadline.

• HOW ARE THE VIDEOS JUDGED?

  Comprehension & 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?
  • Was 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 their presentation - or did they elaborate for too long on one aspect or was the presentation rushed?

  Engagement & 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 their research?
  • Did the presenter capture and maintain viewer's attention?
  • Did the presenter have sufficient eye contact, and vocal range; maintain a steady pace, and have a confident stance?
  • Did the poster board, slide, or image enhance the presentation - was it clear and concise?