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Three-Minute Thesis Details

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Three-Minute Thesis
 
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®) 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” 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?

3MT Competition Video

View Previous 3MT Winners