The capstone project is essentially the culmination of a student’s academic efforts in a graduate program. It aims to demonstrate the skills and knowledge gained throughout the program. Documenting and presenting the capstone project to stakeholders is an important part of the process that allows students to share what they have accomplished and get feedback.
The first major step is properly documenting the project work. This often involves creating a lengthy written report or paper that thoroughly explains all aspects of the project such as the background, purpose, methodology, outcomes, lessons learned, etc. Students must be sure to follow specific formatting and stylistic guidelines required by their academic program. The level of detail in the documentation is important, as it allows stakeholders to fully understand what was done without having been directly involved in the project work. Relevant supplemental materials like visualizations, datasets, code, and appendices should also be included.
In addition to the written report, creating presentation materials is a key part of documentation. The materials needed will depend on whether an in-person or virtual presentation will be given, but should include an introductory slide with the project title and student details, along with a number of presentation slides to guide through the key elements of the project. Graphics, illustrations and other visual elements are strongly recommended to make the presentation engaging and easily digestible for stakeholders. It is a good idea to practice delivering the presentation out loud several times to work out timing and refine explanations.
The next step is identifying the stakeholders who should be presented to. This typically includes the student’s academic advisor, committee members, classmates, faculty in their department, and possibly professionals in the field or organizations related to the project topic. Stakeholders provide different types of feedback and perspective, so involving a good cross-section is important. Once identified, stakeholders need to be formally invited to the presentation with details of the date, time, location or virtual meeting platform, and an agenda or overview of what will be covered. RSVPs should be requested.
Close to the presentation date, the student should do some final preparations. This involves a last review and polish of all documentation and presentation materials. Technical aspects like ensuring any visuals or videos display correctly need attention. The student also has to rehearse their delivery one more time to keep within time limits and sound knowledgeable on the topic. Name placards or virtual name labels may need to be produced for stakeholders as well. On the presentation day, the student should arrive early to set up their space and log into any technologies being used.
When stakeholders arrive, the presentation typically starts with a short introduction from the student’s academic advisor or committee chair to provide context. Then the student delivers their presentation, progressing clearly through each slide or section and keeping within the allotted time. Pausing for questions throughout keeps stakeholders engaged instead of bombarding with questions at the end. The goal is for stakeholders to understand the work and give feedback to improve the student’s knowledge and career prospects.
After presenting, there should be an open question and answer period where stakeholders can probe more deeply. Questions help the student think more critically about their work and consider different perspectives. Feedback is then gathered from stakeholders through informal conversations or evaluation forms. This input focuses on what elements of the project and presentation were strong along with areas for future improvement. The assembled documentation, presentation materials and feedback provide a full record of the capstone experience.
Properly documenting the capstone project in writing and through presentation materials takes time but allows sharing the work with multiple stakeholders in an organized, professional manner. Incorporating feedback strengthens the learning experience and finale product. The capstone presentation is an excellent opportunity for students to gain experience effectively communicating their knowledge and skills gained to relevant parties in their field of study. With diligent preparation, practice, and receptiveness to feedback, documenting and presenting the capstone brings the program curriculum full circle.