On-line Vote for 2023 ESSC

 

This is the strategical phase. It involves, when focused on coping with social media and VR, identifying demand with social relevance and translating these to business or other opportunities. When focused on identifying and resolving social issues the problem tackled must be clearly and concisely defined. Important is to be specific. Social Media and VR is the central theme for all presentations. The challenges this brings for either realizing the main objective of the project, or alternatively, how to alleviate the harm caused by Social MEdia/VR, must stand out. Either way, the pitch must include a distinct and sustainable goal. What needs to be answered is how success is measured. The ideas to reach this goal must be original. They are feasible, innovative, and have a high probability of being effective. 

 

This is the tactical and operational part of the project. A good tactical plan is clearly traceable to the presented concept. No additions or omissions. The plan must be actionable which implies it must be realistic and can be realized by the presenter or presenting team. A team consist of maximum 2 persons. Of course here too dealing with Social Media / VR  must be expressly and meaningfully addressed. Particularly for ‘coping’ presentations judges should be mindful for this. An important criterium for the presented project is that it must be realistically achievable. The necessary resources should be identified and how to procure these. This includes funding. As for the operational part, a plan to manage the project should be apparent. Presenting a timeline with milestones and clearly defined deliverables will lead to a high score for this element. Even if not explicitly referred to as project management, if judges pick up on elements they may reward this.

 

The contest is a social solution contest. To make this accessible for a large group of students, English language skills is grouped under ‘Presentation’ and only provides for 10% of the total score. Important is that the speech is well structured, with an introduction, body and conclusion. Correctness of language ensures that attention will be directed toward what the speaker says, but also how it is said. Proper use of Grammar and correct Pronunciation will show that the speaker is the master of the words being used. Look for clear rhythm and intonation patterns. Appropriate language refers to the choice of words that relate to the speech purpose and to the particular audience hearing the speech. Language should promote clear understanding of thoughts and should fit the context of the speech. Overall Fluency demonstrates the speaker can freely use a variety of speech patterns to express complex thoughts on most topics; and is confident in ability to express views.

 

Physical presentation is also 10% of the total score. This includes appearance and body language of the presenter but also the quality of presenting aides used. Manner is the indirect revelation of the speaker’s own personality as the speech is delivered. The speaker should speak with Confidence and Enthusiasm, showing interest in the audience and confidence in their reactions. The speaker’s appearance should reinforce the speech, whether profound, humorous, or instructional. Body language should support points through gestures, expressions and body positioning. Rules set for video is that these may not include music, is filmed in a quiet room and the presenter is visible. Cell phone recordings should be done horizontally. The semi-final and final rounds are live presentations. For team presentations it is not compulsory for all team members to speak but each team member is required to be on stage and participate in the whole event. If slides are used, these must have an obvious added value. When film is used in this stage this must be accompanied by a live voice-over.