Exploring graduate student learning in applied science and student-supervisor relationships: views of supervisors and their students

Abstract

This study presents the results of a questionnaire about the learning that occurs at graduate level and how the supervision of research contributes to this learning. Graduate students (PhD and Masters) and academic staff who supervise graduate students in applied science were surveyed. Graduate student responses exemplified how critical the relationship with their supervisor is in the success of their research term. The descriptive answers given by supervisors demonstrated their genuine interest in graduate school learning and showed they are cognizant of many issues pertaining to culture and learning environments in graduate study. The questionnaire sought to expand the trends and concepts identified by phenomenographic interviews with graduate students and supervisors.Other important insights such as opinions about coursework, learning environments and barriers are highlighted. Addressing such issues can only encourage an outcome that is beneficial to both students and supervisors through good research and a life-long skill of deep learning for the student.