The Experience Of Examining The Phd

This book provides an authoritative overview of the criteria and standards of the doctorate across a wide range of international settings, with a particular focus on the practices of examining. Presenting case studies and research from 13 universities in 13 countries across Africa, Asia, North and South America, Australia, and Europe, the book is based on in-depth interviews and comparative analyses of the PhD examining experience. It reveals the variations and similarities in different academic traditions and investigates the extent to which there are comparable expectations and standards across countries. It suggests that criteria and standards – both written and unwritten – are broadly similar, but shows that there is a need for much more explicitly formulated criteria and standards for an internationalised approach to doctoral assessment. Following on from the 2019 book The Doctorate as Experience in Europe and Beyond, this book will be of great interest to current and potential doctoral examiners, researchers of higher education, and university administrators.

This book provides an authoritative overview of the criteria and standards of the doctorate across a wide range of international settings, with a particular focus on the practices of examining. Presenting case studies and research from 13 universities in 13 countries across Africa, Asia, North and South America, Australia and Europe, the book is based on in-depth interviews and comparative analyses of the PhD examining experience. It reveals the variations and similarities in different academic traditions and investigates the extent to which there are comparable expectations and standards across countries. It suggests that criteria and standards - both written and unwritten - are broadly similar, but shows that there is a need for much more explicitly formulated criteria and standards for an internationalised approach to doctoral assessment. Following on from the 2019 book The Doctorate as Experience in Europe and Beyond, this book will be of great interest to current and potential doctoral examiners, researchers of higher education and university administrators.

'It also incorporates a wealth of information that most supervisors and examiners only acquire through years of experience... this book deserves to be widely read and, if it is, it should contribute to an improvement in the quality of both research degree examining and the student's performance at the viva.' Professor Diana Woodward, University Director of Research, Napier University, Edinburgh and retiring UKCGE Executive Committee Member 'importantly the book deals with perspectives of all three concerned parties, i.e., the candidate, examiner and supervisor. It is . . . a very useful guide to appreciate and prepare for the different stages of the doctoral examination process.' Higher Education Quarterly What is the viva and how can students prepare for it? What should supervisors consider when selecting PhD examiners? How should examiners assess a doctoral thesis and conduct the viva? The doctoral examination process has been shrouded in mystery and has been a source of anxiety and concern for students, supervisors and examiners alike. But now help is at hand. This book sheds new light on the process, providing constructive ways of understanding the doctoral examination, preparing for it and undertaking it. This book stands alone in the field due to the extensive research undertaken by the authors. Over a four year period, surveys and interviews were undertaken with candidates and academics from a wide range of disciplines throughout Britain. Outcomes and ideas from the research have been united to provide the most comprehensive information available. Real life accounts and case studies are combined with useful advice, tasks and checklists to create an illuminating handbook. This user-friendly book is a vital resource for anyone involved in the doctoral process. No doctoral candidate, examiner or supervisor should be without it.

Written in clear, straight-forward language, Examining Doctoral Work considers how the practice of doctoral examination can be improved to ensure that both examiners and students can make the most of the assessment process. This book analyses both good and bad practice to promote fair, thorough and productive examination. With insight into how to prepare for a viva, as well as a consideration of the responsibilities afterwards, the book de-mystifies this crucial part of the doctoral examination process to provide a comprehensive overview of the principles, criteria and processes needed to ensure success. Key points covered include: The different forms doctoral submission can take How examiners are chosen Where to begin when reading a thesis Managing your time as an examiner What makes a ‘good’ doctoral thesis? How to prepare for the viva How to develop a preliminary report The role of the supervisor before, during and after the viva Examiners’ roles and responsibilities Working through agreements and disagreements Feeding back both orally and in writing. Drawing from a mixture of personal experience, existing research and anecdote, this book is ideal reading for anyone new to the world of doctoral examination, or equally those looking to improve their practice.

By fixing the PhD, we can benefit the entire educational system and the life of our society along with it.

·What is involved in examining a research-based higher degree? ·What are the roles of the internal and external examiners? ·What are the hidden agendas of higher degree examining? ·What are the essential ingredients of a ‘good’ viva? This handbook offers a revealing insight into the written – and unwritten – rules and regulations of higher degree examination in the United Kingdom today. Addressed directly to the examiners, it contains a step-by-step account of the different stages of the examination process in order to provide an insiders’ guide into what to expect before, during and after the oral examination. How to Examine a Thesis covers important issues such as: ·The power-relations between the two (or more) examiners ·Hidden agendas and foul play ·Examples of guidelines and regulations across different institutions ·Advice on MPhil as well as doctoral examinations This book is essential reading for all higher degree examiners but is also of importance to those supervising, and studying for, higher degrees. Moreover, although the book focuses primarily on current practices in the United Kingdom, comparisons are drawn with continental Europe, Australia and the United States. Research degree examiners, supervisors and students throughout the world will find the book of considerable interest.

Undertaking a part-time doctorate when you’re working full-time in higher education can be daunting. This guide gives you realistic and reassuring support for the complexities and challenges you might face. Each chapter helps you map the next step in your doctoral journey, from discovering your motivations and making important decisions about where to study, to preparing for thesis submission and your viva – and how to navigate the ‘after’ when you’ve completed your doctorate. The book: Gives you honest, down-to-earth advice about how to navigate professional and personal challenges, such as continuing professional development and maintaining motivation. Discusses unique tensions additionally faced by academics studying in their own institution, such as managing supervisory relationships. Showcases a diverse range of student experiences, with over 20 case studies of postgraduate researchers. Includes practical activities and reflective questions to help you make the right decisions for you. You can also find templates for helpful techniques, such as doing a SWOT analysis, and a collection of carefully-chosen weblinks to handy resources, such as funding information, on the book′s website. This book is a companion for anyone undertaking doctoral research while working in an academic post.

The aim of this book is to provide prospective and current doctoral students, and their supervisors, with a range of narratives of doctoral experiences. The book is an outcome of a conference where both academic and professional doctorate students at different stages of their research shared their experiences of the process of completing a doctorate. The ten candid accounts included in the volume provide a valuable insight into the kinds of challenges that arise and the ways in which these might (or might not) be overcome. In so doing, this book ‘lifts the lid’ on some of the hitherto concealed aspects of the doctoral process. The book also includes a chapter from an established academic with a record of writing about the doctoral student experience, as well as inserts from a doctoral programme leader and an experienced academic supervisor. In the Introduction, the editors review some of the current literature on experiences of the doctoral research journey and the research process. The book concludes with the editors’ reflections on both the unique nature of doctoral research for each individual and the common stages that students experience on the journey.

This highly practical book provides a workable action plan to help students get a PhD. Illustrated throughout with examples from a wide range of academic disciplines the book includes exercises and points for reflection as well as info on research.

How to get your Ph.D is an original study guide aimed at prospective and current postgraduate students, covering the process of accessing, undertaking and completing doctoral research in the social sciences and the humanities. The content is unique in incorporating discussion of the less recognised personal, emotional and organisational demands of independent study. Drawing on a variety of student experiences, the authors apply a case study approach to examine the dilemmas and complexities of postgraduate study. The book is organised into four parts covering the research process; writing, publishing and networking; shifting identities and institutions and relationships of support. Each chapter includes an easy to use format including real-life accounts, tips and strategies for problem solving and guidance for additional resources. The guide includes accessible advice and guidance across a spectrum of methodological, personal, emotional, practical and institutional issues. SAGE Study Skills are essential study guides for students of all levels. From how to write great essays and succeeding at university, to writing your undergraduate dissertation and doing postgraduate research, SAGE Study Skills help you get the best from your time at university. Visit the SAGE Study Skills hub for tips, resources and videos on study success!