LITERATURE & FILM
Dr. Marlisa Santos, Professor
In your experience, what is the purpose of a conference? To share current research in the field and thereby/also gain perspectives on the important issues in the field, both in research areas themselves and professional issues for the teachers/researchers
In your field, is it typical to deliver Poster Presentations or Oral Presentations? Oral
In your field, do panelists typically read papers or speak without notes? Read papers…but presentations are more engaging with visual aids and periodic ad-libbing by the speakers
In your experience, what is the responsibility of an audience member? To listen respectfully and if asking a question, to keep it relevant to the panel/paper topic at hand, rather than bringing in purely personal interests/expertise that may not be a productive discussion point
How would you describe your presentation persona? (or What is an effective presentation persona?) I hope my presentation persona is an effective one! For me, effective presenters have a friendly demeanor, relaxed body language, speaking clearly at a pace that is readily absorbed by listeners (not too slow or fast), and is confident in knowledge of the topic.
How do you handle performance anxiety? Be as prepared as possible. Read/present paper/presentation aloud at least a couple of times for timing and to catch “unruly” sentences that may not present well. Take deep breaths.
How do you 'network'? Attend sessions of interest and seek out other researchers who are either known to you or who you wish to know. If unable to make contact during the conference, email those to whom you would like to make a connection.
Any tips you normally give to first-time goers? Aside from the above, watch and listen. Each conference has its own “culture,” even within the same field, and it’s good to get a sense of that culture to help you productively engage.