Preparing for an Oral Defense: Tips and Considerations, Schemes and Mind Maps of Information and Computer Technology

Download Preparing for an Oral Defense: Tips and Considerations and more Schemes and Mind Maps Information and Computer Technology in PDF only on Docsity! ORAL DEFENSE TIPS Format and Length (based on 20 minutes max): Introduction and background, including highlights (if any) from lit review (1-2 min.) Research question (1 min.) Research design and methods (5 min. max) Data sources and selection Findings (10 min.) [this should be your main focus] Recommendations/implications (2-5 min.) Summary and conclusion (1-2 min.) Content Issues Concise and clear information Focus on findings Limit details (hit the high points, avoid a lot of names and numbers) Preparing the oral presentation Rehearse the presentation – use an audience (colleague or a recent grad) Get feedback from audience Adjust the presentation to fit time available – better to be less than 20 minutes in rehearsal The defense Stand up is usual – sitting down is acceptable Maintain eye contact with examining committee while presenting Try to read as little as possible – very important! Do not read from your thesis and read as little as possible from your overheads/power point Speak clearly with sufficient volume Answer questions honestly and succinctly – it is OK to say you aren’t sure OK to ask for clarification on a question For some people, it is helpful to write down the question as it is being asked If you are using technology (such as powerpoint or overhead) triple check that you can manage the technology easily, that it will be available and that it will work Always have a back up plan in case the technology fails – for example, if you have planned on using power point, bring overhead transparencies as well Additional Considerations Always keep to time (be aware that if you are over time, you are likely to be cut off by the chair) Welcome further discussion/questions Remember, you are only providing a brief overview of your research, not reading your entire thesis Remember, the committee is on your side – they want to see you do well Bring all necessary papers to be signed to the defense – have additional copies in case they are needed