Preparing for the Transfer John S.A. Edwards, PhD., Dr honoris causa ( Örebro University, Sweden)

1. 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

2. Outline • The purpose of the transfer • The process of the transfer • Preparation for the transfer • The dreaded day • The outcomes

3. What is a PhD? To have demonstrated: • 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; • A systematic acquisition and understanding of a substantial body of knowledge which is at the forefront of an academic discipline…; • 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; • A detailed understanding of applicable techniques for research and advanced academic enquiry.

4. The Purpose of the Transfer • Identify and demonstrate progress made to date, to include any results & findings obtained; • Outline, explain and justify follow-on research to be undertaken leading to submission; • Ensure and demonstrate the PhD worthiness of the research topic; • Identify any potential ‘issues’ that might arise and any skills training needs.

5. The Process of the Transfer • Takes place approximately 18 months after registration for full-time and 36 months for part-time students; • Preparation of a written report; • A Transfer Viva.

6. Preparation for the Transfer

7. The Written Report • 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

8. Preparation for the Viva • 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

9. The Dreaded Day • Membership: • Independent Chairman • Two Independent Academics • Supervisory team • Process • Chairman’s introduction • Try to relax!! • Questions – two way process • Deliberations • Outcomes

10. Questions That Might be Asked • 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’?

11. Examiners’ Dilemma • Is this your own work? • Has satisfactory progress been demonstrated? • Is the proposed plan/course of action appropriate and likely to lead to success? • Did the candidate show that he/she has the ability (academic/motivation etc) to complete? • What makes or will make this a PhD?

12. The Outcomes • Transfer/register for PhD • Undertake additional work on the transfer report • Do not transfer – withdraw • Examiners recommendations • Discussed with you supervisor

13. Summary and Conclusions Go off and Celebrate