NJRSF Judging Criteria

The following evaluation criteria are used for judging at the NJRSF. As shown below, science and engineering have different criteria, each with four sections as well as suggested scoring for each section. Each section includes key items to consider for evaluation both before and after the interview.

Judging Criteria for Science Projects

I. Research Question (20 pts)

___ clear and focused purpose

___ identifies contribution to field of study

___ testable using scientific methods

II. Design and Methodology (20 pts)

___ well designed plan and data collection methods

___ variables and controls defined, appropriate, and complete

III. Execution: Data Collection, Analysis and Interpretation (20 pts)

___ systematic data collection and analysis

___ reproducibility of results

___ appropriate application of mathematical and statistical methods

___ sufficient data collected to support interpretation and conclusions

IV. Presentation (40 pts)

a. Poster (20 pts)

___ logical organization of material

___ clarity of graphics and legends

___ supporting documentation displayed

b. Interview (20 pts)

___ clear, concise, thoughtful responses to questions

___ understanding of basic science relevant to project

___ understanding interpretation and limitations of results and conclusions

___ degree of independence in conducting project

___ recognition of potential impact in science, society and/or economics

___ quality of ideas for further research

___ for team projects, contributions to and understanding of project by all members

Judging Criteria for Engineering Projects

I. Research Problem (20 pts)

___ description of a practical need or problem to be solved

___ definition of criteria for proposed solution

___ explanation of constraints

II. Design and Methodology (20 pts)

___ exploration of alternatives to answer need or problem

___ identification of a solution

___ development of a prototype/model

III. Execution: Construction and Testing (20 pts)

___ prototype demonstrates intended design

___ prototype has been tested in multiple conditions/trials

___ prototype demonstrates engineering skill and completeness