POLITICAL SCIENCE
Dr. G. Nelson Bass III, Assistant Professor
In your experience, what is the purpose of a conference? The main purpose of a conference is to share ideas and hopefully build better research models. However, the tangential benefit of an academic conference is that it allows you to see how others go about not only their research – but their presentation of research. It provides the attendees with a sense of how others in the field present themselves and their research and gives you new ideas for your own presentation style (as well as to consider different ways of approaching phenomena).
In your field, is it typical to deliver Poster Presentations or Oral Presentations? Oral presentations in Political Science
In your field, do panelists typically read papers or speak without notes? Both. Many of the conferences I attend the speakers speak plainly and openly, maybe with just a few notes. However, in the past couple of years I have seen more academics (typically younger academics) who prepare a written version of their research and read it to the audience. I am personally more comfortable talking off the cuff.
In your experience, what is the responsibility of an audience member? To pay attention and be authentic listeners. That means listening to the presentations and pushing back your initial thoughts about the research so that you can try and approach the topic in a way that is open-minded and engages the researcher on their research and nothing else. Audience members should also be aware that they are part of the presentation to an extent and behave in ways that they would like others to during their own presentations (Golden Rule).
How would you describe your presentation persona? (or What is an effective presentation persona?) I think each individual has to figure out their own strengths and then be comfortable with their own persona. There is no one size fits all model for presenters – some will be more comfortable talking without notes, while others will want copious notes to follow and stay on track.
How do you handle performance anxiety? The same way I handle all anxiety – by reminding myself that millions of people have done this, no one died, and it will be over before you know it. Worst case scenario you learn something. Contrary to popular belief, we have all bombed a presentation or two and guess what? No one remembers after a couple of days.
How do you 'network'? I don’t. At least not in the typical sense. I try and be myself and if given the opportunity chat with colleagues about their interests and research I am happy to – but unless something comes out of it on its own (i.e. someone offers to collaborate) I am not a huge fan of passing out business cards/ trying to force anything.
Any tips you normally give to first-time goers? Relax. Be yourself. Be comfortable in your own skin - everyone else is nervous as well – and everyone is always nervous about presenting your ideas. You are going to do great!