The role of the opponent/commentator The seminar structure The disposition and content of the criticism The style of criticism How to be A Good (Enough) Opponent

The role of the opponent/commentator Lead the discussion at the seminar (together with the chair of the seminar) Constructively discuss the thesis: Point to weaknesses (discuss alternative solutions) Point to strengths (specify why it is a strength)

The seminar structure Introduction by the chair of the seminar (=examiner) Comments by the author on errata (if needed) Opponent: A summary of about 10 min – give the author a possibility to comment Discussion with the author: Opponent makes questions and leads the discussions (in accordance with opposition template) Questions and comments from the chair of seminar and sometimes from other seminar participants

Opposition template Introduction of research problem Problem description Relevance to global studies Aim and research questions Clarity and precision Linkage between problem description, aim and research questions Limitations Relevance and motivation (are all relevant limitations included?) Method Choice of method (relevance). Use of method for data collection and analysis. Methodological reflections and consciousness of methodological problems and pitfalls

Opposition template, cont. Material Selection Criticism of sources (reliability, type of sources etc.) Previous research Linkage to previous research Relevance Theory, concepts and analytic framework Relevance for aim and research questions, material, results and conclusions. Results Quality and presentation of empirical material (systematic, clarity) Linkage to aim and research questions Analytic skills (ability to integrate theory and empiric material)

Opposition template, cont. Coherence Coherence between research questions, theory, method, material, findings and conclusions Abstract Clarity and relevance Format All parts included? Correctness of: - References - Literature list – Footnotes - Table of contents (and other tables) Language and style Structure Spelling, grammar Quotations Comprehensibility Final evaluation Have the research questions been answered?

Disposition and content of criticism Main focus on research design and methodological aspects : Research question/s, problem, relevance Method Theory Conclusions Coherence Less important to discuss: Introduction Background Language (references, citations) Not necessary to bring up everything in opposition template

The opponent is responsible for creating an interesting, balanced and constructive discussion!

One model Start (warming up) Organisation of thesis Method and material Theory and its relation to the material Analysis of the material Arguments and contribution Minor comments Concluding comments (Coherence)

Opposition and grading If the examiner is hesitant about the grading of the thesis, the author’s defence at the seminar may influence the final grading A very bad opposition may be graded fail. The opponent then has to submit written substantial comments/critique of the thesis or act as an opponent at a later seminar

The style of criticism No one likes criticism, even though we may say we welcome it Different cultures (communities, departments). Is there a specific SGS style? Different individual approaches/experiences (as opponent, author, seminar participators) Seminar as a reciprocal affair (consider power positions) Balance between delivering criticism and being constructive All theses deserve constructive comments!

Exercise on being an opponent Racism amongst Swedish football supporters AS 204 Breast ironing in Cameroon AS 219 Changes in cultural identity due to tourism AS 325 Each group shall first (rapidly) choose two seminar leaders 1. Work two and two a. Decide on two - three points of criticism b. Agree on how to deliver the critique in a constructive way that may open up for an interesting discussion c. Then both of you change hats and become the author and discuss how to answer to the critique 2. Group discussion Start at Focus on the points of criticism that were brought up (1 a) The seminar leaders chair the discussion