A well-rounded program of doctoral studies involves much more than honing research skills and writing a high quality dissertation. Aside from research and writing, the WMU PhD Programme intends to provide generic knowledge and train its graduates in skills that are not generally assessed through the dissertation. The Programme aims not only to support researchers in their studies, but also prepare them for future careers within the academic and non-academic world. These skills include the ability to, inter alia, interrogate their own work and that of others and in making an original and ethical contribution to knowledge as part of a global academic community, gain specialised insight into the possibilities and limitations of research, exhibit an awareness of developments in own area of work and contemporary knowledge in domain, present and discuss research findings authoritatively in speech and writing and in dialogue with both the academic and the maritime community (in both national and international contexts), clearly communicate complex ideas in a coherent and technically sound manner, and properly acknowledge the work of others both in written and oral communication.
This portfolio subject contributes to the achievement of the above, and more, by requiring candidates to compile a portfolio in which they continuously document as well as critically reflect on their experiences relating to generic knowledge and skills in a variety of aspects of their doctoral education. These include contributing to teaching in the MSc program, participating and presenting at academic conferences, acting as student-opponent at a final progression seminar, enrolment in taught subjects, engaging in publications, research collaboration, and selection and employment of research methods, among others.