Thesis Defense Training

Language: English

The dissertation defense is often regarded by doctoral candidates as one of the most challenging stages of the PhD journey. However, it is not a traditional examination but rather a combination of presentation, academic discussion, and ceremonial milestone, as the candidate's scientific qualifications have already been established through the evaluation of the dissertation.

The aim of this workshop is to help participants approach the defense with confidence. They will learn how to present their research convincingly, respond confidently to critical questions, and demonstrate a professional academic mindset.

The workshop combines short input sessions on the nature of the defense, expectations of the examination committee, and key principles of effective academic communication with participants' own practice presentations, followed by individualized feedback. The two-day format allows theory and practice to be closely integrated. In addition to guidance on content preparation, there is ample opportunity for practice presentations, feedback, and discussion of participants' questions.

The workshop will be conducted in English and is open to doctoral candidates from all disciplines, regardless of the stage of their PhD. Participants will also receive a workbook covering the key concepts and gain access to supplementary online tools to support their preparation for the dissertation defense.

Contents

• What is a dissertation defense? Structure, formal requirements, and communication with the examination committee
• Roles, expectations, and strategies for dealing with uncertainty during the defense
• Fundamentals of rhetoric and academic presentation skills
• Designing presentations: opening, structure, and conclusion
• Handling difficult and critical questions
• Short presentations by participants with individualized feedback

Learning objectives

• Understand the structure and formal requirements of a dissertation defense
• Present research findings clearly and convincingly
• Respond confidently to critical and unexpected questions
• Practice their own presentation in a supportive environment
• Receive individualized feedback on their presentation

Methods

• Short input sessions
• Plenary and small-group discussions
• Case study–based learning
• Participants' practice presentations with individualized feedback (recording only with participants' consent)
• Individual and group exercises

Prerequisites

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