Obtaining examiners' reports
I received a letter from the ANU on Friday advising that my PhD has been approved. The reports of three examiners were enclosed, each recommending that the thesis be accepted without amendment—along with a few comments and suggestions. So I guess it’s a case of mission accomplished! I remain very grateful for all the support I have received during my candidature—from my principal supervisor and panel members, CEDAM staff and candidates, CIs, IPs and project team members, informants, respondents, bloggers, critical friends, partner … —the list is extensive indeed. Looking back, I have learned a great deal—as much about myself as my research topic—but have also become increasingly aware of how much I don’t know. I hope that in future I might be able to provide practical support to others engaged in the doctoral enterprise—whether at critical points (e.g. ‘hitting a wall’, ‘writer’s block’) or routine moments (e.g. ‘reflecting critically’, ‘contemplating possibilities’). It would be great to have the opportunity to offer something in return and in a way that is meaningful to the individual or group seeking input. If invited, I suspect my primary focus would be on listening and clarifying rather than offering advice—preferably in an informal context.
