Giving a seminar

In a seminar, a group of students meet with an academic staff member(s) to discuss a topic that is being studied. Some type of presentation is given as a basis for discussion. Generally, it is a formal talk or paper given by a student, which is followed by a discussion of the contents of the presentation.

At post-graduate level, seminars are often presentations of a thesis for the information of other students or supervisory staff, and are used to identify the weaknesses and strengths in the thesis.

The level of formality of a seminar depends on the expectations of the staff member(s) involved, so check their expectations with them beforehand.

When giving a seminar:

• plan how you will promote discussion and audience interaction.

When participating in a seminar, you are expected to:

• have done any preparation expected of you
• noted any questions/points for discussion
• participate in the discussion.

When evaluating a seminar, some things to consider are:

• was the intention/purpose of the seminar made clear?
• was there a clear introduction?
• were the main points restated in the conclusion?
• did the speaker(s) stick to the topic?
• were visual aids, examples, handouts etc helpful and relevant?
• was the topic discussed at an appropriate level?
• did the speaker display a thorough knowledge of the topic?
• was the discussion directed/handled well by the speaker(s)?
• did everyone participate in the discussion?
• did the discussion increase your understanding of the topic?