17 / 36
5
If a supervisor does not attend the oral examination for any reason, should be contactable
during the examination in order that the examiners may, if they wish, seek clarification on any
particular issues.
2.2
VARIATION OF EXAMINERS
Examiners have different personalities. Do not take offence; do not take the comments very
personal. A non-confrontational response –will assist in re-balance the on-going discussion.
Pleasant Examiners
a. Listen attentively to you.
b. Treat you as a fellow researcher.
c. Often guide you to be on track.
d. Suggest other options.
e. Willingly share knowledge.
Detailed Examiners
a. Very specific in getting your response.
b. Checking each and every single word/phrase.
c. Extra focus on spelling, format, and style.
d. Suggesting many (and many) other options.
e. Too perfectionist (idealist).
Adversarial Examiners
a. Challenging you in every aspect.
b. Want you to join the ‘argument’.
c. Extra focus on your words.
d. Always look for evidence.
e. Opposing in order to get the very right answer from you.
2.3
ADAPTING TO EXAMINERS’ DIVERSE STYLE
a. You are skilful, the expert and know your substance well.
b. The easiest way to handle any adversarial/confrontational questions is: be prepared for
such questions beforehand.
Topic 2 : VIVA Voce Panel and its Role