Working independently on the dissertation proposal: experiences of international Masters’ students

Pringle Barnes, G. and Cheng, M. (2019) Working independently on the dissertation proposal: experiences of international Masters’ students. Journal of Further and Higher Education, 43(8), pp. 1120-1132. (doi: 10.1080/0309877X.2018.1450965)

[img]
Preview
Text
158809.pdf - Accepted Version

467kB

Abstract

This article explores the experiences of international students as they engage in independent learning through formulating dissertation proposals. It contributes new insights by focusing on the ‘pre-supervision’ stage, where students formulate a research project and write a proposal independently. The analysis draws on questionnaire and focus group data from a large cohort of international taught postgraduates in business disciplines at a UK university. Two types of experience become apparent: one in which students work through the challenges presented by more independent learning, and the other where difficulties in ‘getting started’ present a barrier to progress. The article concludes by proposing a scaffolding approach, through which students can practise and complete key independent learning tasks involved in writing a dissertation proposal.

Item Type:Articles
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:Pringle Barnes, Dr Gayle
Authors: Pringle Barnes, G., and Cheng, M.
College/School:College of Social Sciences > School of Social and Political Sciences
Journal Name:Journal of Further and Higher Education
Publisher:Routledge
ISSN:0309-877X
ISSN (Online):1469-9486
Published Online:11 April 2018
Copyright Holders:Copyright © 2018 UCU
First Published:First published in Journal of Further and Higher Education 43(8):1120-1132
Publisher Policy:Reproduced in accordance with the publisher copyright policy

University Staff: Request a correction | Enlighten Editors: Update this record