EVENT DESCRIPTION:
Inspired by BAHFest, held at MIT Cambridge, we at Pragyan present FundaM.E.N.T.A.L, deciphered as the Fundas of Mindblowingly Entertaining Nonsensical Theories About Life.
FundaM.E.N.T.A.L is a budding crazy scientist's dream come true. The aim of the event is to present a ridiculous theory that is scientifically incorrect, and yet support its validity using genuine scientific laws, statistical data, graphs, diagrams for explanation and what not.
Witness participants having the thrill of trying to sell the merits of a particularly incredulous idea to an auditorium full of unexpecting people. Expect ludicrous interpretations of science twisted to comedic effect at its best. There are no restrictions on the theory, so science in all of its disciplines is welcome - from why dosas are round, to explaining how people fall in love; from how shoelaces are an important part of our lives to explaining why yawning is contagious - the possibilities are infinite. Your mind is your own personal laboratory. Whip up your contraptions and astonish the world with your theory!
To get an idea about the event, watch FundaM.E.N.T.A.L teaser
Prizes worth INR 22000
Date: 3rd March 2018
Time: 8AM to 12:30PM
Venue: EEE Audi
FORMAT:
Ø Abstract Round:
Teams will need to submit an abstract of their theory in a minimum of 500 words. Graphs and diagrams along with the abstract will be appreciated.
Ten teams will be shortlisted based on the judging criteria.
The shortlisted candidates must submit their final presentation one day before the event.
The deadline to submit the abstract is 21st Feb 2018 and are to be uploaded as a .pdf format.
To submit your abstract:
1. Click 'Upload Abstract' which will lead you to a new page.
2. Exercise the provision to upload files on the new page.
3. With that, your submission of abstract is complete.
Ø Dry run:
A dry run may be organized before the event starts, just to give the participants an idea about the event.
Ø Final Round:
Every team must exhibit its theory in the form of a presentation. Presentation can be in any format - powerpoint, prezi, video, audio, movie, drama – the stage is yours.
Each team will have 6 minutes on stage for their presentation. Time limit enforcement will be strict.
Audio and video facilities will be provided.
Teams will also have to defend their theory to the judges when asked questions.
Evaluation will be done based on the judging criteria.
JUDGING CRITERIA:
As an event inspired by BAHFest, the same selection criteria is followed.
Initial selection of teams and our judges will be grading theories on four criteria:
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Force of Science - how much “scientific” information was brought forward (graphs, real citations, “research” etc.)
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Artistry - how unexpected and clever the idea and presentation are, and how well the presentation is delivered.
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Parsimony - the simplest theory that explains the most data.
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Strength of Defence - how well the theory is defended in front of the judges.
F.A.Q:
Q) Do I need three people in my team to participate?
A) A maximum of three participants, thus, less than that is permitted. If there exists a team with no participants, we shall consider it null and void.
Q) Is there a restriction to the randomness of my theory?
A) If you can phrase it, you can use it. There is no limit to your imagination.
Q) What will I need for the event?
A) A theory. And the necessary presentation you have made, to support the same. Necessary materials you intend on using while presenting. Yourself, plus the friends or foes that may speak with you. An imagination with a dash of scientific mumbo jumbo.
Q) What should be the format of the presentation?
A) It can be anything- a presentation, a play, a stand-up piece, audio, video, etc. The necessary technical infrastructure will be provided. Please inform us beforehand of the format of presentation and your requirements for the same.
Also, ensure that you present it within the allotted time and make it as interactive as possible.
Q) Can I use media files in my presentation?
A) Yes. You are free to do so. All forms are allowed, ensuring you stick to the stage time allotted. Please ensure that all media files are compatible and in working conditions well before presenting on stage.
Q) How long do I get to speak on stage?
A) 6 minutes is the maximum time allotted for each team to present their theory. Followed by a Q&A session by the judges.
Q) Can I use humor in what I present?
A) Yes, please.
Q) Must my team members be from my college alone?
A) No such restriction exists. All you need are Pragyan IDs.
Q) Can UG and PG Collaborate?
A) Yes, they can. A team may consist of anyone pursuing their U.G., P.G., or even Ph.D.
Q) What does this event test?
A) The event tests the following:
• Creativity of the participants-how unexpected or simple the idea is
• Scientific Accuracy of the main theory and its support theories
• Power of rationalization and substantiation
• Presentation skills (to an extent)
Q) When will I be informed if I am selected to the next round?
A) If you are selected for the next round you will receive a mail a month before Pragyan with details of your participation. May the odds be ever in your favour.
RULES:
- Team of maximum 3 members.
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No reproduction of previous theories.
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No vulgarity, foul language.
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Anything overly grotesque or horrifying is discouraged.
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Major changes from abstract will not be tolerated.
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Judges’ decision will be final.
CONTACTS:
Preeti: 9445402126
Sanjay Rajasekaran: 9600640863
Shankari Sundaresan: 8754097525
Or email us at: fundamental@pragyan.org