Mapping Individual Learner Attributes Against Ph.D. Candidate Characteristics

• In Event: Exploring Processes Involved in Doctoral Education

Abstract

An on-line survey was used to obtain information about the personal and candidature characteristics and psychological attributes of a sample of PhD candidates at Australian universities. Candidate profiles of cognitive and affective attributes were developed and related to the personal and candidature characteristics over different stages of candidature. The overall intent is to assist candidates, supervisors and universities to improve the experience and completion of PhD studies by providing specific, well-directed information on an individual basis based on candidate profiles.

Authors

• Sid F. Bourke, The University of Newcastle

• Robert Cantwell, The University of Newcastle

• Jill Scevak, The University of Newcastle

• Allyson Patricia Holbrook, The University of Newcastle

• Janene Budd, The University of Newcastle