Thesis Defense Training

In their thesis defense, doctoral students have to present their research to a board of examiners and then answer critical questions. This course is designed to prepare them optimally for this situation. In the first part of the course the participants get practical tips for their introductory presentation: how to structure the presentation, how to build up the central argument, how to make a good introduction etc. The second part of the course addresses problems that can occur during the discussion. We look at various types of difficult questions and discuss strategies that the participants can use to respond to them. In the third part, participants get the chance to practice their presentation and to receive feedback from the group and from the trainer.

Contents

• The introduction of the thesis defense presentation
• How to structure the thesis defense presentation
• How to make valid and sound arguments
• How to respond to difficult questions
• Presentations from participants

Learning Goals

The Participants learn...

• to structure their presentation optimally
• to develop a valid and sound argumentation
• to respond confidently to critical questions
• to be well prepared and feel confident about their thesis defense

Methods

• Best practice examples for how to structure the thesis defense presentation and how to develop a sound argumentation
• Developing the central elements for each participant's presentation: research question, main message, and argument structure
• Discussion of strategies for handling difficult questions
• Discussion exercise
• Mini presentations from all participants and feedback
• Simulation of a full thesis defense for one or two participants