Module 4 of the STREAM-IT Mentoring Programme: From idea to a clear and confident presentation

With the fourth module of the STREAM-IT Mentoring Programme, participants continued to build on the work from previous sessions, this time with a clear focus on the presentation itself – how their research can be not only understandable, but also convincingly delivered.

The work was organized in small groups with mentors, allowing for a more intensive dynamic and more space for each participant to be actively involved. In these sessions, participants presented their research, followed by detailed discussion and feedback. Instead of general comments, the focus was on specific aspects: what is unclear, where attention is lost, and what can be shortened or better emphasized.

In addition to group work, individual mentoring sessions played a key role. Each participant worked directly on their presentation, both in terms of content and visuals. The structure was carefully reviewed – whether the message is clear from beginning to end, whether there is a logical flow, and whether the key points are sufficiently highlighted. At the same time, slides were refined to make them simpler, more readable, and easier to follow, ensuring they support rather than distract from the presentation.

Special attention was given to delivery. Participants worked on how they sound and how they appear while presenting: pace of speech, clarity of expression, use of pauses, as well as body language and audience engagement. Through repeated practice and targeted feedback, they gradually developed greater confidence and a more controlled performance.

This module was an important step, as it brought together all previous elements: content, structure, and delivery into a cohesive whole. With the completion of this module, participants are now significantly better prepared for the next phase of the programme – preparation for the national science communication competition, where they will apply everything they have learned in a real presentation setting.

This program is part of the ST(R)E(A)M IT project, a project which aims to initiate change about the persisting gender inequalities in STEM education, research, and innovation to contribute to the implementation of the ‘The European Manifesto for gender-inclusive STE(A)M education and careers.’  The project aims to overcome the barriers and challenges faced by underrepresented groups in STEM. It focuses on developing innovative, gender- and diversity-inclusive tools for educating young people, particularly young girls. Additionally, the project seeks to mobilize stakeholders from various sectors of STEM education and the R&I ecosystem to create sustainable networks that provide ongoing support to STEM education providers.