I’m going to present at an IT conference. The problem is that I’m a linguist.
My research is connected to computer communication, but I’m the only one accepted into this conference who is from a completely different field. Moreover, my research is purely theoretical, and other presentations seem to focus on the practical application of their findings.
What’s the best way to go about it? My presentation really doesn’t seem to fit in, and I’m a bit nervous. I’m not sure how to best present to those who aren’t very familiar with linguistics.
Comments
You’ll want to spend more time on the background and be careful to avoid or clearly define jargon. Explain any graphs, if they’re a different style than the attendees are used to it’ll take them longer to parse what it means. End with a key takeaway slide. But go in confidently and have fun- you’re a breath of fresh air, not a sore thumb. I love when researchers from other fields are convinced to come to our seminars. They’re always popular and memorable.
If you can, show them how to expand their thinking. I presented a computer program (well, a HyperCard stack) to the MLA (all English professors) and it went over very well.
Cover more of the basics than you may otherwise normally do, especially if any little intriguing factoids apply. Then just present with confidence. THEY accepted your abstract, perhaps even invited you – they want to hear from you.
Anyone who shows up is at least a little interested. If you’re feeling brave, you can poll the audience before talking.
Starting with Why is a great conference trick. Instead of beginning with the research question, start by explaining why you’re bringing your linguistics appetizer to a comp sci pot luck. If you can give them a bit of “this is why I wanted to be here” they will pay you back with “This is why we want you here.” Most people aren’t total assholes and every academic who isn’t a monster can handle a presentation outside their specific niche if they’re interested in the panel more generally.
That said, it’s also possible that if people aren’t into it, they may leave. THAT IS PERFECTLY FINE and no reflection on the quality of your work. Politely passing on the deviled eggs is better than forcing yourself to gag one down and looking miserable.
Look on the program for presentations that sound cool, look up their published work, and send the authors an email saying “I’m planning to attend your talk at XYZ conference. The presentation sounds cool because l…”. You might get a couple polite replies, and they might ask about your work.
Alternatively, if you’re really the ONLY one in the whole place who cares, you have a golden opportunity present your work in a low stakes environment.You don’t need to impress anyone, so you can be yourself.