Three-minute Thesis Talks
What is a Three-Minute Thesis Talk?
The Three-Minute Thesis Talks, which will be held Thursday, May 15, in the Solarium, 590 Old Main, were inspired by a competition created by The University of Queensland that challenges participants to explain their research to a general audience in three minutes or less, using a single PowerPoint slide. Hundreds of universities worldwide hold such presentations each year. Western has hosted increasingly popular graduate student Three-Minute Thesis Talks since 2020; however, this Scholars Showcase event is not held as a competition.
Why participate?
Three-minute Thesis Talks cultivate graduate students’ academic and research communication skills. Preparing for this presentation category develops your ability to present research effectively and clearly to a non-specialist audience in a limited amount of time — skills that you will bring forward into your career.
Who participates and what topics qualify?
You don’t have to be working on a thesis to present a Three-Minute Thesis Talk. Any kind of graduate research or form of scholarship can be presented in this format.
Psychology Graduate Student Chrystal Dragonflame presents her Three-Minute Thesis on the benefits of visualization as part of meditation.
Guidelines
- Present within the three-minute time frame.
- Create a single, static PowerPoint slide meant to enhance your presentations, opting for Wide Screen (16:9) without transitions, movement, or animations, additional props or media.
- Provide an understanding of the background and significance of the research question being addressed, while explaining terminology and avoiding jargon.
- Provide a clear description of the impact and/or results of the research, including conclusions and outcomes.
- Present in a clear and logical sequence in language appropriate to a non-specialist audience.
- Spend an adequate amount of time on each element of the presentation without elaborating too long or appearing rushed.
- Communicate effectively and engage your audience as follows:
- Convey enthusiasm for the research.
- Capture and maintain the audience’s attention.
- Sustain sufficient stage presence, eye contact, vocal range, steady pace, and a confident stance.
- Take care not to trivialize or generalize the research.
Resources for developing your Three-minute Thesis:
The University of Queensland’s Virtual 3MT Competitor Guide includes tips for all stages of the process, from drafting through presentation. Watch sample 3MT presentations from graduate students around the world.
Questions and Info
Contact scholars.week@wwu.edu.
For accessibility services, please contact the Disability Access Center at drs@wwu.edu or 360-650-3083 or visit in person at Wilson Library 170.