Graduate School
Three-Minute Thesis Details
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What is 3MT速?
Eligibility
- All Master's and PhD students at Southern Miss in all programs are invited to participate.
- Students enrolled in 100% online programs can participate virtually.
Why participate in 3MT速?
Participation in the 3MT速 competition at Southern Miss can strengthen graduate student communication skills, promote their field of research to the campus and the general public, and advocate the value of research and how it positively impacts their lives. Winners will be provided cash prizes including:
Grand Champion: $1,000
Grand Champion Runner Up: $750
People's Choice Award: $500
Each of the Eight Finalists: $250
The 2024 3MT Grand Champion will represent 天胆AV at the Regional 3MT competition held at the in Dallas, Texas, on March 19-21, 2025.
What 3MT速 resources can I take advantage of?
What are the rules for 3MT速?
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 static PowerPoint slide is permitted (no slide transitions, animations or 'movement' of any description, the slide is to be presented from the beginning of the oration). Wide format (16:9).
- 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 3 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.
What is the judging criteria for 3MT速?
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?
For questions, please contact Shaadi Shoubaki at Shaadi.ShoubakiFREEMississippi.