Preparing for the Transfer
John S.A. Edwards,
PhD., Dr honoris causa (Örebro University, Sweden)
Professor of Foodservice
Foodservice and Applied Nutrition Research Group
Bournemouth University
Editor:
Editorial Board Int. J. of Contemporary Hospitality Management
Outline
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The purpose of the transfer
The process of the transfer
Preparation for the transfer
The dreaded day
The outcomes
What is a PhD?
To have demonstrated:
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The creation and interpretation of new knowledge, through
original research …of a quality to satisfy peer review, extend
the forefront of the discipline, and merit publication;
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A systematic acquisition and understanding of a substantial
body of knowledge which is at the forefront of an academic
discipline…;
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The general ability to conceptualise, design and implement a
project for the generation of new knowledge, applications or
understanding at the forefront of the discipline, and to adjust
the project design in the light of unforeseen problems;
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A detailed understanding of applicable techniques for research
and advanced academic enquiry.
The Purpose of the Transfer
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Identify and demonstrate progress made to
date, to include any results & findings obtained;
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Outline, explain and justify follow-on research to
be undertaken leading to submission;
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Ensure and demonstrate the PhD worthiness of
the research topic;
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Identify any potential ‘issues’ that might arise
and any skills training needs.
The Process of the Transfer
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Takes place approximately 18 months
after registration for full-time and 36
months for part-time students;
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Preparation of a written report;
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A Transfer Viva.
Preparation for the Transfer
The Written Report
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Approximately 10,000 words (including
appendices);
500 word abstract;
Table of Contents:
Introduction – include project questions, aims & objectives
Literature review
Research plan – include description of methodology and
approaches used/to be used
Progress to date – summary of results, findings & any
difficulties
Conclusions
References – and perhaps bibliography
Why/What makes this a PhD
Preparation for the Viva
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Know your way around the thesis;
Read through and try to anticipate likely
questions/‘difficulties’ and formulate responses
in your mind;
Have a ‘run-though’ with friends;
Find out about your examiners;
What are your publication plans?
Remember, you are (or will shortly be) the
subject expert;
Bull***t Baffles Brains – try to be confident
The Dreaded Day
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Membership:
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Independent Chairman
 Two Independent Academics
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Supervisory team
Process
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Chairman’s introduction
Try to relax!!
Questions – two way process
Deliberations
Outcomes
Questions That Might be Asked
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Why this research topic?
Why is this topic important?
Can you summarise your research/methodology?
What are the main weaknesses of your research?
What other work has been undertaken in this field?
What is/will be your unique and significant
contribution to the body of knowledge?
Why is/what makes this a PhD?
What else have you learned/gained so far from this
‘PhD journey’?
Examiners’ Dilemma
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Is this your own work?
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Has satisfactory progress been demonstrated?
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Is the proposed plan/course of action
appropriate and likely to lead to success?
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Did the candidate show that he/she has the
ability (academic/motivation etc) to complete?
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What makes or will make this a PhD?
The Outcomes
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Transfer/register for PhD
Undertake additional work on the transfer
report
Do not transfer – withdraw
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Examiners recommendations
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Discussed with you supervisor
Summary and Conclusions