University-funded project on Doctoral Vivas presented at South African conference

An international research project exploring the doctoral viva process, led by Professor Gina Wisker, Research Fellow at the University of Gibraltar and Professor at the University of Bath, was presented at the Conference on Research into Postgraduate Supervision at Stellenbosch University, South Africa, in March 2025.

The study, which involves collaborators from the UK, New Zealand, Australia, and Gibraltar, examines how viva exams are conducted, whether in person, remote, or hybrid, and the roles and experiences of candidates, examiners, and chairs. University of Gibraltar contributors Dr Darren Fa , Director of Academic Programmes and Research and Ms Caroline Moss-Gibbons, Parasol Librarian, have played key roles in the research.

Drawing on interviews with participants from the University of Bath, the University of Gibraltar, and the University of Otago (NZ), the project sheds light on evolving viva practices, challenges, and ways to improve the experience. Findings from the study are already helping to shape best practice in Gibraltar’s own PhD programme and contribute to the university’s growing research output. The project has resulted in two academic papers: one focusing on candidates’ experiences of the viva, and the other on the role of mock vivas in preparing students for the process.

Figure 1 (at the top): From left to right: Professor Rachel Spronken-Smith, Professor Gina Wisker, Associate Professor Ludovic Highman

Figure 2 (at the bottom): Extract from the conference presentation