The formal defense is typically the final stage of the capstone project where the student presents their work to a committee of faculty members and others. It is a major undertaking that requires thorough preparation in order to showcase the effort, learning, and results of the capstone project in a clear and organized manner.
In the months leading up to the defense, the student works closely with their capstone advisor to refine their project results, prepare a formal written report, and plan out their oral presentation. The written report provides an in-depth record of the entire capstone project from start to finish so that readers can understand the research problem/issue that was addressed, the approach and methodology that was used, a discussion of the key findings and outcomes, as well as overall conclusions and implications. It is common for the written report to be 50-100 pages in length depending on the specific requirements.
Once the written report is finalized and approved by the capstone advisor, preparation begins for the oral presentation which will take place during the formal defense meeting. This involves creating a compelling slide presentation, usually around 20-30 slides, that covers all the critical elements of the project in a clear, logical flow. Sample slides would include an introduction to the research problem, literature review, methodology, results, conclusions, and future work. Visual elements like graphs, tables, photos are used judiciously to enhance understanding. The presentation is rehearsed numerous times to ensure its timing falls within the allotted time limit, usually around 30 minutes, including some periods for Q&A.
Weeks before the targeted defense date, the student submits their request to schedule the formal meeting along with electronic copies of their written report and presentation slides. The capstone coordinator or department sets the date, time and location for the defense meeting. Committees typically consist of 3 faculty members including the capstone advisor, but may include additional members from industry for professionally focused projects. The date is widely advertised to enable other interested parties can attend as well.
On the big day, the student arrives early to set up their laptop and ensure the AV equipment is functioning properly. As the meeting begins, the committee members are introduced and provided printed copies of the written report for reference during the presentation. The student then proceeds to deliver their oral presentation, staying within the time limit.
Following the presentation portion, the formal question and answer period begins. Committee members rigorously examine different aspects of the project, often playing “devil’s advocate” to probe the depth of the student’s knowledge and understanding. Questions can cover anything and everything related to the project from methodology to results to limitations. Students must demonstrate full command of their work and think on their feet. This Q&A period typically lasts 30-45 minutes.
Once all questions have been addressed, the committee excuses the student from the room and deliberates among themselves. They consider the quality and rigor of the project work, the student’s presentation skills and responses during Q&A. A decision is made regarding whether the student has successfully passed the defense.
The student is then invited back in, and the committee chair informs them of the final outcome. In the case of a PASS, official congratulations are given and the project is deemed completed. For a FAIL outcome, the committee explains areas requiring further work before another defense can be scheduled. A list of revisions is provided to guide the student.
Assuming a successful PASS result, the student can proudly lay claim to having completed their capstone project through this rigorous review process. It serves as a demonstration of the higher-order research, critical thinking, and presentation skills attained over their course of study.
The formal capstone defense provides both challenges and rewards for students as the culmination of their capstone experience. With diligent preparation and command of their work, they can feel a great sense of accomplishment in having their project vetted and validated through this rigorous academic rite of passage.