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

 The purpose of the transfer  The process of the transfer  Preparation for the transfer  The dreaded day  The outcomes Outline

 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. What is a PhD? To have demonstrated:

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. The Purpose of the Transfer

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.

Preparation for the Transfer

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

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

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

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’?

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?

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

Summary and Conclusions