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 2 nd 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 students 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