Oral Presentations

Abstract

While scientific writing provides an opportunity for disseminating the knowledge gained in research findings to others, another means of communicating new research results is through oral and poster presentations at meetings and conferences. This is the most likely form of scientific communication among peers, especially for early results. Oral presentations use a more conversational style than in a written communication to convey the research results to others in the field. The authors can use the oral presentations to clarify doubts and explain the points that may not be clear in writing.

Appendix 9.1: An Evaluation of Oral Presentations

• Name of Speaker:

• Name of Evaluator:

• The Subject Matter

  • Did the speaker show adequate knowledge of subject?

  • Were significant points emphasized?

  • Was the talk confined to assigned subject?

  • Did the talk cover too much of superficial generalities?

  • Was the talk presented at the audience’s level of comprehension?

• Comments/Ratings

• Delivery/Presentation Style

  • Did the speaker maintain eye contact, a forceful voice, and enthusiasm?

  • Were the speaker’s mannerisms, posture, and gestures appropriate?

  • Were the main concepts developed in a logical sequence?

  • Was the talk extemporaneous rather than reading to the audience?

  • Was talk about the right length?

• Comments/Ratings

• Use and Quality of Visual Aids

  • Were characters and features easily visible?

  • Were images overly complex?

  • Were visual aids legible and understandable?

  • Were there enough (and not too many) visual aids?

  • Did images clearly depict the points made?

• Comments/Ratings

• Audience Reaction and Discussion

  • Was time allowed for discussion?

  • Did the presentation stimulate discussion?

  • Did the speaker show professional composure during questioning/discussion?

  • Did the speaker react to criticisms or opposing views openly?

  • Did the speaker respond adequately and clearly (including “I don’t know”)?

• Comments/Ratings

• Overall Rating (out of 10; 10 = highest)

• Signature of evaluator/optional comments

• Date