Minding the Gap:Introducing Multimodal Communication Through Research Poster Presentations

Sohui Lee, Ph.D. Russ Carpenter, Ph.D.

History and Background

Two Design Models

Oral Pitches

Literature on Research Posters

The Professional Scientific Poster Session

The Literature

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ORAL VISUAL

look

explain

[ PICTURE OF HUME?]

1. “Newspaper Column” model

2. Visualization Model

Newspaper Column Visualization

Advantages

• Commonplace• Predictable• Easy to

produce

Drawbacks

• Text driven• “Template”

Advantages

• Unique• Reveals data

relationships

Drawbacks

• Time and skill• Data

dependent

Presentation is an essential part of the poster presentation

Oral Presentation

Modulation is catering content to specific audience types

Modulation

Modulation

Ask questions

Read name tags

Specific but brief backgroundMajor implicationsLess jargon

Filter Terminology

Less background, elaborate detailsMajor implicationsNuanced interpretations

Discipline

Field

Effects of ethanol on shoaling behavior in Zebrafish (Danio reiro)

Example of modulated title

Drunk fish swim alone

Alcohol consumption influences social interaction in Zebrafish

Discipline

Field

General

Presentation is an essential part of the poster presentation

Oral Presentation:Take Home Messages

Modulation content to specific audience types promotes memorability and facilitates discussion

1. Relating the context of research poster session is vital for helping students understand purpose, need, and strategies for visual and oral communication.

2. By exploring two models of visualizing research poster design, students heighten awareness of visual design and can cultivate creative thinking.

Sohui Lee, Ph.D.sohui@stanford.edu

Russ Carpenter, Ph.D.russ1@stanford.edu

Hume Center for Writing and SpeakingStanford University