2006;7:9-23. doi: 10.1177/1469787406061140.

Superqual: A tool to explore the initial expectations of PhD students and supervisors.

Active Learning in Higher Education

Mario Hair

UIID-EM: 105 Bookshelf ID: 2006-02309-002 DOI: 10.1177/1469787406061140

Abstract

In recent years there has been growing concern to improve standards in postgraduate research. Much of this has focused on generic research skills training. However, there are other, equally important, supervisory aspects such as welfare, mentoring and support arrangements. This article focuses on the initial expectations, of both students and supervisors, of their roles and duties at the start of the supervisory process. Using concepts from the service quality literature, an instrument 'Superqual' is developed aimed at exposing any gaps in expectations that, if not resolved, could generate problems during the life of a doctorate. The use of Superqual in a number of case studies is reported. The results are mostly positive, and suggestions are made for its improvement and adoption. (PsycINFO Database Record (c) 2012 APA, all rights reserved). (journal abstract)

Keywords: initial expectations; postgraduate students; postgraduate supervisors; supervisory process; development of Superqual instrument; Professional Supervision; Educational Degrees; Professional Standards

Publication Types

• Journal Article