Prizes & Judging Criteria
Final Round First Place Finisher: $1,000
Final Round Runner-Up: $500
Final Round People’s Choice (determined by audience vote): $500
The panel of judges will evaluate participants in the preliminary and final rounds based on the following:
Comprehension and Content
- Did the presentation clearly identify the research question/topic 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?
- Did the speaker use language appropriate for 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, not elaborating for too long on one aspect or rushing through portions?
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 their research?
- Did the presenter capture and maintain their 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?