JUDGING
Judgment … the moment that some people dread! Do not worry, here you will find all the elements to be ready to welcome the judges. Above all, always keep in mind that judges are passionate science and techno volunteers who discover your projects with pleasure!
Alumni have agreed to share tips to pass through the judgment as pros!
1. Everything is a matter of practice!
Allow time to practice your presentation and coordinate with your team member if you present as a duet. You will feel more comfortable from the start.
2. Target what counts
For example, in an experimentation project, judgment is made more on the criteria for analysis and discussion. Pay attention to the scientific method, since it reflects the value of your experience. It is certain that all the steps are important, but we must make choices!
3. Use your time wisely
Quickly present the origin of your project idea. It’s easy for you, and it creates an interest from the judge from the start! Follow with your protocol, but refrain from telling everything! Focus your presentation on your experimental approach, the analysis and the meaning of your experience. You can always go back to the manipulations later. Have you tried and retested your experiences in many different ways? Mention it, but do not dwell on the details.
4. Interact with the judge
The judge does not ask you any questions? Why not ask him? Ask him to anticipate the next step for example. We recommend that you find a balance between an overly familiar contact and an approach that is too distant.
5. Look after appearances!
Another advice, even if it is very far from being a decisive criterion, prepare well the visual of your stand. Here, we are not talking about spending a lot of money to have fully digitized signs. You can definitely make a good impression with good “old fashioned” posters! Be attentive to the elements you place on your posters: relevant images and graphics and all the elements that you can rely on to present your project.
6. Be brief
Did you need less than 15 minutes to complete your presentation and answer the judge’s questions? Do not worry. Presentations last 15 minutes maximum, not 30 minutes minimum. Do not be afraid to see your judge leave after 10 minutes, and enjoy the break instead.
Criteria
When presenting your project, you want to know what judges will evaluate when they come to see you! Here are the main criteria used and the percentage attributed to them:
