What is 3MT?
Three Minute Thesis (3MT®) is a research communication competition developed by The University of Queensland. Ph.D. students have three minutes to present a compelling oration on their thesis and its significance. 3MT is not an exercise in trivializing or ‘dumbing-down’ research, but challenges students to consolidate their ideas and research discoveries so they can be presented concisely to a non-specialist audience.
History
The first 3MT was held at The University of Queensland in 2008, with 160 students competing. Enthusiasm for the 3MT concept grew, and its widespread implementation by universities has led to the development of an international competition. 3MT is now held in over 900 universities across more than 85 countries worldwide.
In Spring 2014, Washington State University’s College of Education hosted the first 3MT event at the university. In conjunction with Showcase Week, WSU hosted its first university-level competition, and 3MT has remained an integral part of celebrating the university’s academic excellence.
Why Participate in 3MT?
3MT is part of an effort to provide students with an opportunity to develop their oral communication and presentation skills, specifically as it relates to research.
Skills Training for Students
The exercise of competing at 3MT develops academic, presentation, and research communication skills, while developing research students’ ability to effectively explain their research in language appropriate to a non-specialist audience.
Building Research Culture in Schools and Institutes
3MT provides a valuable opportunity for Ph.D. students to come together, get to know one another, and discuss their research. It also provides a supportive environment in which universities and their colleges can provide presentation skills training.
Prizes
Students compete for travel awards toward the research conference of their choice.