WestWind
[Registered User]
25 September 2024 09:49
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External examiner gave me annotated thesis at end of viva
User: WestWind - 25 September 2024 09:49
Hello all.
I had my viva yesterday and have been referred to resubmit. This is the only option my university is now offering other than minor corrections (i.e., we don’t have the major corrections route anymore). I was generally expecting it and am not too shocked, however I did have an unexpectedly difficult experience with my external examiner. This involved a lot of making faces and shrugging when I’d try to make a point in my defence/answer a question, and a lot of general negativity from them, that contrasted so much with my internal examiner, who also had many criticisms but delivered them highly professionally.
My main concern is that I really got the impression that my overall research orientation is simply not of interest or convincing to my external examiner. Not having an ideal viva examiner arrangement is a problem that has arisen from the fact that my research is interdisciplinary, and we had to decide to take an internal or external examiner from “either side,” if that makes sense. However, I was under the impression from my primary supervisor that my external examiner would find my research in an overall sense more compelling and convincing than I am left feeling they did. So, my problem moving forward is that I’m struggling to feel secure that - even if I meet the corrections expected of me/communicated via the report - my external will be satisfied.
To add to this sense of unease, my external examiner gave me their annotated version of my thesis at the very end of my viva (after I heard my outcome). Now, I am confused. How can I possibly not internalise every little thing they’ve written in there? How am I supposed to heed only what’s in the report and not feel that I must satisfy every concern in their annotations? Is it standard procedure for an examiner (internal or external) to provide their annotated version of your thesis like this?
Thanks for your help!
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mark_wood11
[Registered User]
25 November 2024 06:20
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User: mark_wood11 - 25 November 2024 06:20
It’s understandable that this situation feels overwhelming, but rest assured, many candidates have navigated similar challenges and successfully resubmitted their work. First of all, congratulations on completing your viva – even under difficult circumstances, this is an achievement in itself. The referral for resubmission is not the end of the road but an opportunity to strengthen your thesis and make it more robust.
Regarding your experience with the external examiner, it’s unfortunate that their approach left you feeling uneasy. Remember, the feedback process can be subjective, and not every examiner’s demeanor reflects the quality or potential of your research. Interdisciplinary work can sometimes pose challenges in gaining unanimous appreciation, but it also demonstrates your ability to bridge fields and think innovatively. Keep reminding yourself that a referral isn’t a rejection—it’s a chance to enhance your work.
To address your concerns moving forward:
1. Focus on the Report: Universities generally emphasize that the corrections detailed in the post-viva report are the ones you need to address to achieve a successful outcome. While it’s tempting to fixate on every annotation made by the external examiner, it’s important to prioritize the report’s requirements. Use the annotations as secondary guidance to clarify or improve specific sections, but don’t let them overshadow the report.
2. Communicate Professionally: If you’re unsure about specific points raised by the external examiner, your supervisor may recommend asking for clarification through official channels. This ensures that your resubmission directly addresses their concerns and avoids unnecessary revisions.
3. Trust the Process: While the external examiner’s feedback is important, the final decision is usually made jointly with the internal examiner. Your internal examiner’s professional and constructive approach suggests they’ll bring balance to the process.
Regarding the annotated thesis, while it’s not standard practice for all examiners, some do provide this as a way to offer detailed, supplementary feedback. However, remember that your university’s official report should be your primary guide.
Lastly, take time to regroup and approach the resubmission methodically. If you need assistance staying organized or revising effectively, consider seeking help with exam online services or academic coaches who specialize in supporting postgraduate students.
Visit: https://helpwithexam.com/
You’ve come this far, and with the right focus, you can successfully navigate this phase and submit a thesis you’re proud of. Good luck—you’ve got this!
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