Symposium Assignment

Group Dynamics

 

Symposium: I want this to be a true problem-solving mission. Decide on one problem that is either related specifically to NSU or to students in general. You will then investigate solutions and, ultimately, propose a specific solution in your presentation. The presentation should include thorough research, visual aids, and good delivery skills. 

 

What is a symposium and how does it work?  A symposium is used to enlighten an audience on a topic.  Each participant is allowed to speak uninterrupted on a topic.  Each group will need one moderator (to introduce each participant and field questions from the audience).  The rest of the individuals will speak for about 5 minutes each.  (At least one speaker should present information on the problem, possible solutions, and the solution being offered by this group of experts).  Be sure to coordinate so that there will be no repetition amongst speakers.  Each group will be allowed 20 minutes total for the presentation and then will be given additional time for questions from the audience.

 

Outline and Bibliography: Please turn in an outline of all presentations and a complete bibliography before your presentation.

 

Audience:  Each group is expected to get at least 10 people (who are not enrolled in the class) to attend their symposium.  Groups are encouraged to publicize their event to draw any interested audience members from NSU and external communities.

 

Place:  UC or some other very public space

 

Symposium Evaluation Form

Students:

Topic: 

 

 

needs

work

below

average

 

average

above average

 

Wow!

COMMENTS

1.  Moderator

  • Did s/he get our attention?
  • Was the thesis clear? 
  • Is the topic made relevant to the audience?
  • Were major points previewed and speakers introduced?     

2

4

6

8

10

 

2.  Speakers

·         Clear organizational pattern?

·         Information on the problem?  Possible solutions?  An ultimate solution?

  • Enough information for audience understanding?  (Is there support for each main point?)
  • Adequate source citations?

5

10

15

20

25

 

3.  Conclusion

  • Did the moderator provide closure?

2

4

6

8

10

 

4.  Delivery

·         Volume?

  • Articulation?
  • Rate?
  • Pitch?
  • Gestures?
  • Eye Contact?

4

8

12

16

20

 

5.  Visual Aids

  • Good selection and design (quality of illustrations)?
  • Good use (well displayed and discussed)?

3

6

9

12

15

 

6. Outline & Bibliography

  • Formal principles of outlining?
  • Bibliography? 5 sources?

2

4

6

8

10

 

7.  Audience

·         Are the participants knowledgeable and thorough when asked questions by the audience?

·         Are there 10 people in attendance who are not enrolled in the course?

·         Did this group publicize the event?

2

4

6

8

10

 

 

 

Time: ____________   (20 minutes max)                                              Grade:______ x 2 =__________

 

©2007 Amy Aldridge Sanford