Discussion Paper: Toward Best Practice Services and Representation for Research Postgraduates

Background

The aim of this paper is to assist higher education providers and student organisations in promoting quality and seeking continuous improvements in services and support for postgraduates.

This discussion paper builds on findings from The Research Education Experience in 2009 Workshop report, and is based on the presentation given by CAPA to the April 2010 meeting of the Council of Deans and Directors of Graduate Studies (DDoGS) hosted at the 2010 Quality in Postgraduate Research Conference (QPR). It is also informed by the Postgraduate Services and Representation pilot study conducted in 2009.

The purpose of this discussion paper is to take services and representation for research higher degree students as a starting point as part of a broader exercise. While some of the items in this discussion paper are specific to research higher degree students, the majority apply equally for both research and coursework higher degree postgraduates. The particular issues and concerns around quality for coursework postgraduates will also feature in subsequent discussion papers in the lead-up to the final report.

This discussion paper also focuses on services and representation that are typically (but not exclusively) provided by student organisations. Subsequent discussion papers will address broader factors, including for example minimum resource standards for postgraduate study, with the aim of promoting quality and seeking continuous improvement in a broad range of postgraduate services and representation, in support of a world-class student experience for all postgraduates.

Invitation for input and feedback

The purpose of this consultation draft is to invite input and feedback on aspects of the proposed benchmarking exercise. The first part of this exercise is to circulate a draft set of proposed items around which a benchmarking framework may be established, beginning with a sub-set of services and representation items for research students.

Benchmarking will wherever possible be on indicators that are objectively verifiable, based on publicly available information. Interviews with university representatives, students and student organisations will be employed to help arrive at a response on each of the proposed items, and to explore opportunities to share examples of best practice.

A final report, including examples of best practice and recommendations on supporting continuous improvement in a broader range of services and support for all postgraduate students will be available mid 2010.

All interested parties are invited to respond to the following discussion points:

- Does the proposed benchmarking exercise identify the right factors?
- Are there any aspects of the postgraduate experience omitted that you believe are important?
- Are there any examples of best practice in postgraduate services and support you are able to recommend?
- Do you have any other recommendations, suggestions or feedback on promoting quality and supporting continuous improvement for postgraduate services and representation?

Input and feedback is invited in response to this discussion paper, at benchmarking@capa.edu.au

The closing date for responses is Friday May 21st 2010.

If you have additional input or feedback, or have questions about this discussion paper, please contact Nigel Palmer at nigel.palmer@capa.edu.au, or (03) 9650 7666.

Responses will be posted to the CAPA website, and inform the development of the final version of the report (due to be released mid 2010). Please indicate if you would like for your response to the Discussion Paper to remain confidential.