Location: Royal Society, Edinburgh
Summary of content:
A keynote address by Christine Humfrey of Nottingham University assessed how we deliver support and supervision to meet the needs of international research students. This was followed by three sessions devoted to identifying the particular needs of international research students, examining issues and strategies for supervisors of international research students, and examining institutional and departmental structures for managing and supporting both students and supervisors. The sessions were evidence-based, and drew on break-out groups sharing their experience and current practice, as well as presentations and referenced hand-outs.
Key points of discussion:
It was generally agreed that international research students had a range of particular needs. Supervisors were required to develop particular skills and knowledge, which addressed the practical, cultural and pedagogical heterogeneity of the student experiences. Institutions and departments needed to focus on developing a joined-up support structure which operated right through from the application and induction processes to preparation for examination and even alumni experiences.
Evaluation and outcomes:
The workshop was evaluated very positively by participants. The best ratings were received for content, speakers and handouts (all of which scored “Excellent” from at least 11 of the 17 respondants to the questionnaire). The venue and catering were not highly rated.
Other comments / notable points:
Any future workshop on this subject should consider altering the makeup of break-up groups and reducing the time devoted at the end to the institutional structure (which was considered less useful by participants than the initial two areas covered).
Report author: Dr Emma C. Murphy
Date: 15th January 2007
