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First Year HDR Student Experience Project
Improving the first year and international student research experience 2003 - 2007
Since 2003 the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) and the Higher Degree Research Committee (HDRC) have systematically sought feedback from semester one commencing HDR students on their initial research experiences at Macquarie University.
Between 46% - 63% of semester one commencing students have participated in this quality assurance study, representing around 100 students annually. Student feedback through this project is confidential and anonymous.
In 2007, International HDR students were also surveyed to provide feedback to Macquarie University on their particular HDR experiences.
Project Aims
The overall aim of the First Year HDR Student Experience project is to seek feedback from commencing HDR students on their transition into higher degree research and on the quality of the first year research experience at Macquarie University. Student feedback has also been invaluable in helping the HDRC monitor the effectiveness of new policies for the improvement of HDR research.
The 2006 study examined the transition into higher degree research and the quality of the first year research experience at Macquarie University. Specific aims were:
- To investigate the 2006 commencing HDR student cohort’s research experiences and their satisfaction with support and guidance provided by the University, Division, Department and Supervisor;
- To compare their experiences with those of the 2003-2005 cohort studies in order to ascertain changes in perceived experiences;
- To continue to measure change against the 2003 baseline;
- To provide recommendations to the HDRC for the continued improvement of the first year research degree experience at Macquarie University;
- To provide Divisions with specific feedback.
Outcomes & Reports
- The Executive Summaries 2003 - 2006 (Internal access only)
- Student Feedback: Issues and Outcomes 2003 – 2006
- Implementation Reports of Recommended Changes (Internal access only)
- International HDR Student Feedback: Executive Summary 2007 (Internal access only)
The project is under the direction of Associate Professor Ruth Neumann and is supported by Ms Leah Boucher, Project Officer.
For further information, contact Ruth Neumann or Leah Boucher:
Phone: 9850 9764
Email: Ruth Neumann: ruth.neumann@vc.mq.edu.au
Email: Leah Boucher: highered@vc.mq.edu.au