About this guide
This is your go-to document to learn about submitting an application to present at the Mason Graduate Interdisciplinary Conference. It includes tips, guidelines, and abstract criteria.
What the Call for Proposals Form Will Ask You For:
- Lead Presenter Name
- Co-Presenter Names
- Project Title
- Research Abstract (250 words)
- Research Keywords
- Conference Presentation Type
- Submitter’s Contact Information
- The Degree Classification
Evaluation Process
Proposals are evaluated and scored by reviewers internal to the Graduate and Professional Student Association conference committee.
Each submission is evaluated on the below criteria:
1. Meets basic abstract requirements (0-1 points possible)
Ensure your submission has a title, clear details for the reader to understand the context and subject matter, a clear purpose and methodology, keywords tied to the subject matter, and any conclusions, interpretations, or recommendations.
2. Clearly defined purpose (0-3 points possible)
Clearly tie your argument to the practical or theoretical background of the subject matter, without including a literature review. Provides strong contextual background for your research. Must be in the past or present tense.
3. Clearly defined question or thesis (0-3 points possible)
Clearly describes your thesis, hypothesis or research question. Whether practical or theoretical, you should offer a brief description for your reader to understand the question you are attempting to analyze or understand.
4. Clearly defined methodology (0-3 points possible)
Clearly describes your methodology utilized in your research. Clearly connects your methods to key scholars related to the subject matter. Provides clear and concise information in three sentences or less. Only describes the methods used, does not argue the use of the method.
5. Clearly defined findings or results (0-3 points possible)
Clearly and concisely describes the findings of your research. Address components of the data and methods that may have impacted your findings. Briefly describe the possible impacts (positive or negative) of your findings.
6. Offered interpretations and a coherent conclusion (0-3 points possible)
Presents a clear and concise summary of your findings or results. It should be written in the past or present tense to show that your analysis is complete. If the project is being continued, you should note that here. Clearly describe any challenges and successes with the project. Provide a clear critical analysis of your project and the results.