Con­fe­ren­ce Prac­tices

• Period of study: One semester, autumn
• Final assessment: Assessment from the course instructor
• Language of instruction: English

Course description

This joint online course, collaboratively offered by the Norwegian Academy of Music (NMH) and the Sibelius Academy (SibA) in Helsinki, focuses on academic conference practices within the field of music theory. The course is part of a collaboration within the European University Alliance in Music (IN.TUNE). Designed for master’s students, the course offers practical experience in preparing and presenting scholarly work in a simulated conference environment. Over eight online sessions, students will engage in keynote lectures, student presentations, panel discussions, and roundtable conversations. The course promotes cross-institutional academic collaboration and
supports students in developing skills essential for participating in international scholarly communities.

Course coordinator: RamReuven / Composition, Music Theory and Music Technology Department

Learning objectives

Upon completion of the course, it is expected that the student:

• Demonstrate specialized knowledge and critical understanding of academic conference practices within the field of music theory
• Develop and articulate complex arguments effectively, demonstrating advanced communication skills suitable for international academic discourse
• Enhance communication and networking skills pertinent to scholarly activities
• Gain insights into current research trends in music theory
• Apply various stages and technical aspects of delivering a conference presentation

Overview

The course offers a structured framework for developing and refining advanced academic presentation skills, promoting autonomy and critical engagement in scholarly activities. Through guided workshops, peer feedback, and active
participation in simulated conference formats, students will practice articulating research ideas in a professional context. In addition to receiving constructive responses to their own work, students will engage with diverse academic perspectives through keynote lectures and collaborative discussions. The course supports cross-institutional learning and helps students build confidence in their ability to contribute meaningfully to the broader field of music theory.

Structure

The course comprises 8 weekly online sessions, each lasting 125 minutes, divided into two modules:

1. Training Module:

• Introduction to conference procedures and practices
• Guidance on abstract writing and presentation structuring
• Workshops on creating and delivering effective presentations
• Emphasis on critical analysis, synthesis of information and the application of advanced research methodologies throughout the presentation development process

2. Conference Module:

• Student presentations simulating conference settings
• Keynote lectures by visiting scholars
• Group discussions and feedback sessions

Course requirements

1. . Participation in the scheduled lessons is mandatory. Absence of more than 20% will normally lead to failure of the course
2. Delivering a 20-minute presentation based on the student’s research or thesis work and submitting a video recording of the presentation.
3. Active participation in discussions and peer feedback
4. Submission of presentation abstract (350 words), PowerPoint presentation and a written summary of the presentation (paper/notes, 1,500-3,000 words)

Deadline: Course requirements 2 and 4 must be submitted no later than December 15 on Canvas

Final Assessment

All course requirements must be fulfilled for the student to receive a final assessment.

The final assessment is given as a pass/fail mark which is determined by the course instructor based on an exam portfolio.

Exam Portfolio

• Presentation abstract, PowerPoint presentation and a written summary of the presentation.
• A recording of the 20-minute presentation of the student’s research or thesis work.

New Assemssment

Students failing the course will have to apply to re-follow the course for a new assessment. Students may only re-follow the course if there are available places.