Understanding of Relevant Philosophy

Are the philosophical positions relevant to the field of study correctly indentified? Are the subtleties of the positions understood? Are the difficulties and issues with the positions described or recognised? Are terms used in a standard way in their field or, if not, clearly defined?

Relevance to Field of Study

Are the philosophical issues identified important to the proposed research of the candidate? Do the philosophical positions described bear on the nature of knowledge in the candidate’s field of study? To what extent do the arguments in the essay relate to the area of study?

Quality of Argument

Is the essay well argued? Are the arguments sound and carefully worded? Would the arguments be defensible (or even persuasive) to others in their field? Are there obvious and unacknowledged weaknesses in the argument? Are assumptions identified and explicated?

Evidence of Self-Reflection and Independent Critique

Is there any evidence of awareness of the difficulties, weaknesses and issues of the candidate’s chosen position? Does the candidate show an independent critical stance towards the accepted “truths” in their field, making up their own mind and questioning assumptions?

Style and Clarity

Is the essay easy to read? Is it in a style that would be accessible to academics in their chosen field? Is it written in a professional style? If written in a style that deviates from the norms of their field is this justified and appropriate?

General Quality

Would this essay (suitably edited) be of a quality to form a part of the candidate’s PhD? Is it of a standard and style that would be acceptable or even of interest to other academics in the field? Does it show evidence of having mastered the issues in a way relevant to the field of study? Are all sources clearly acknowledged?

Signature: Percentage:

White copy to candidate, Yellow retained by Lecturer, Green to Office