Why Are Vivas Conducted And How To Prepare For Them?

Vivas or oral examinations are an integral part of academic assessment. These assessments are conducted in various educational institutions and professional settings to evaluate a student’s or a candidate's understanding of the subject, and to assess their communication skills. Writing has got nothing to do with this type of exam.

In this article, we will explore the purpose of vivas along with important tips on how to prepare effectively for them.

Why are Vivas Conducted?

Assessment of Knowledge

The primary purpose of a viva is to assess a candidate's depth of knowledge on a particular subject or topic. Unlike written exams, vivas allow examiners to access not only what a candidate knows but also his/her ability to articulate and apply that knowledge when needed.

Critical Thinking and Problem-Solving Ability

Vivas often require candidates or students to think critically and solve problems on the spot and answer promptly. Examiners may present scenarios, case studies, or questions that demand immediate analysis and thoughtful responses. This helps to evaluate one’s ability to apply one’s knowledge in real-world situations.

Communication Skills

Effective communication plays a key role during vivas. Candidates must be able to express themselves clearly and concisely, as well as respond to questions and feedback from examiners. This aspect is very important in professions where clear communication is essential, such as medicine, law, and education etc.

Assessment of Understanding

Vivas assess not only the breadth of knowledge but also the in-depth understanding. Examiners may probe deeper into the subject or topic to determine if the candidate possesses a good understanding of the subject.

Real-Time Evaluation

Vivas offer the advantage of real-time evaluation. Examiners can adapt their questions and follow-up inquiries based on the candidate's responses, allowing for a dynamic assessment process.

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Important Tips to Prepare Well for Vivas

Preparing for vivas can be a challenging and nerve-wracking experience, but with the right approach, candidates can maximise their chances of success. Listed below are some important tips that may help you to prepare well for your vivas.

Command of the Subject

The foundation of viva preparation is a thorough understanding of the subject or the topic. Make sure you review your notes, textbooks, and any relevant materials regularly and remember everything. Be prepared to answer questions not just about the main topics but also related concepts and applications.

Practice with Mock Vivas

Mock vivas are invaluable in helping you become comfortable with the viva format. Seek the help of mentors, teachers, or institutes that offer mock viva tests for practice sessions. This will give you familiarity with the actual viva experience and allow you to receive constructive feedback.

Additionally, you will be able to develop strategies, enhance your communication skills, answer tricky or analytical questions, and maintain your composure during the real viva exam.

Develop Strong Communication Skills

Work on your communication skills, including clarity, pronunciation, coherence, and confidence. Practice articulating your thoughts clearly and concisely. Pay attention to body language and eye contact, as these non-verbal cues are also important while talking.

Don't Overprepare

Overloading yourself with excessive information can be counterproductive. Instead, focus on understanding the key concepts and details of your work along with ensuring you explain them clearly and concisely. Moreover, excessive information may land you in answering a lot of undesired questions.

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Think About Potential Questions

Try to think from the perspective of the examiners or panellists. What questions might they ask? Consider the most obvious ones related to your topic. Write them down and practice answering them. This can help you organise your thoughts and develop coherent responses. Also, identify your weak areas, and prepare yourself accordingly.

Talk to People Who Have Taken Viva Before

Speaking with individuals who have already gone through a viva can provide valuable insights into the process. They can share their experiences, what to expect, and how they prepared. Hearing about others' mistakes and experiences can help you avoid making similar errors in your viva. You can also learn from their preparation strategies. Their feedback can be incredibly beneficial in refining your presentation and responses.

Stay Updated

In some fields, staying updated with the latest research and developments is crucial. Be aware of recent advancements and trends in your subject or topic. Examiners may ask about contemporary issues to assess your updated knowledge.

Expect the Unexpected

Vivas often involve unexpected questions or scenarios. Be prepared to think on your feet and adapt to unfamiliar situations. Embrace uncertainty as an opportunity to demonstrate your problem-solving skills and smartness.

Stay Calm and Confident

On the day of the viva, try to stay calm and composed. Take deep breaths, maintain a positive mindset, and believe in your preparation. Confidence in your knowledge and abilities will shine through in your performance.

Vivas are conducted with the aim of assessing a candidate's knowledge, critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and communication skills. They serve as an important tool in academic and professional evaluations. Effective preparation for vivas involves a comprehensive understanding of the subject, strong communication skills, and the ability to tackle unexpected questions. By following the above-mentioned tips, candidates can approach vivas with confidence and increase their chances of success in their assessments.

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