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The Learning Experiences of International Research Students

The Learning Experiences of International Research Students. Professor Roger Murphy & Jackie Goode Institute for Research into Learning and Teaching in Higher Education. 50 in-depth interviews of International Doctoral Students and Supervisors

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The Learning Experiences of International Research Students

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  1. The Learning Experiences of International Research Students Professor Roger Murphy & Jackie Goode Institute for Research into Learning and Teaching in Higher Education

  2. 50 in-depth interviews of International Doctoral Students and Supervisors • Involved students from 8 different University of Nottingham Schools • All Students interviewed at least twice • November 2003 – June 2005 • Most interviews were at least one hour long (tape recorded and transcribed)

  3. Student Expectations • Students expected high standards of teaching and learning • Students wanted to gain credentials with high exchange value in global market • Non EU students worried about making cultural ‘faux pas’ • Many expected high levels of contact and direct instruction from their supervisors

  4. Student Experiences • Valued Induction Programmes and Graduate School Courses • ‘UK Style student-directed’ supervision came as a surprise • Students often unsure what was expected of them • Students needed more explicit guidance on what to expect/what was expected of them • How are things done around here?

  5. Student Experiences cont • Roles and responsibilities even more complicated if 2 or more supervisors for students • Perceived need for students to ’manage’ supervisor(s)/supervisions • Greatly appreciated evidence of supervisors awareness and understanding of their countries and cultures • Welcomed home invitations/social events where offered • Wanted to learn about British culture within and outside the University • Valued opportunities to develop ‘generic skills’, but these could add to overall demands

  6. Student Experiences cont • Language skills impeded progress and wanted more support for writing theses • Better understanding of ‘criticality’ etc by 2nd year • Financial constraints a source of anxiety for some.

  7. Supervisor Experiences • Experienced supervisors saw international students as invaluable research colleagues of the future • Recognised the need to focus on successful completion • Aware of ‘crisis points’ requiring greater sensitivity and support • Effective supervision requires awareness and understanding of each student’s own cultural background

  8. Supervisor Experiences • Language skills a big issue for some students • Need to check student understanding of supervision advice/decisions • Need to encourage ‘mutual self-help’ environment for students to help avoid social isolation.

  9. KEY ISSUES • Cultural Awareness/Sensitivity • Tailor induction to students needs • Prepare students for ‘UK model’ • Disseminate Good Practice • University Wide Resources/Facilities

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