The Viva Voce
From the IB Extended Essay Guide 2016 p.111
Throughout the process of writing their Extended Essay, students have three official discussions with their advisor. Each of these meetings constitutes the basis for one of 3 student reflections which are part of the final document sent to the IBO. These reflections serve to evaluate Criterion E - Engagement. The final of these discussion is called the Viva Voce. It is a short interview, about 15 minutes, to conclude the Extended Essay process. It serves various purposes: on the one hand, the official discussions are periodic confirmations of academic honesty. The Viva Voce is an opportunity to reflect on the successes and failures of the essay writing process, as well as what has been learned through this experience. It is also a discussion which will help the advisor in writing their supervisor report by highlighting main points the student would like to put forth of their experience.
Like in the rest of the IB Diploma, students are encouraged to take a leading role in their education. It is an expectation that the student will be leading the Viva Voce, and will come prepared with main points to discuss, questions, as well as any resources they feel could be relevant to the discussion. Students are also open to listening to their advisor in what they noticed throughout the essay writing process, both strengths and also areas for improvement.
Here are some sample questions that may be discussed during the Viva Voce:
How did the focus of your research question change throughout the writing process?
Where there any unresolved parts to your research?
On page X, you write "..." - what did you mean by that?
What were the most rewarding parts of writing your essay?