Abstract
Starting an academic research project is an exciting journey which students approach with high zeal, excitement and passion. Eventually, the excitement reduces; very few complete on time, a sizable number abandon their studies and others drag on for long beyond the allowable academic time. In fact, most of the students end up applying for extension of time before they are deregistered. On estimate, only 10% of those who begin their PhD journey are able to complete in an average 4 years’ time. This paper analyzed the dilemmas students go through in their research process and the challenges supervisors meet in handling doctoral research projects. The study employed an exploratory design. Self-administered questionnaires were used on 42 respondents who included; PhD students on a research project, PhD student supervisors and PhD holders who had undertaken a research project. Data analysis was done concurrently with data gathering using content analysis method. The study findings indicated that supervisor challenges are mainly institutional constructed, while students recounted lack of clear guidance and orientation on the research process, attributed to both the institution and supervisor. Mutually, there is a tendency to assume that both parties have a clear familiarity with the study process. The study recommends the need for attention in; planning, design and orientation of both students and supervisors in managing academic research projects specifically, outlining expected milestones at each level. The study designed a triad supervisory model that can be adopted by institutions of higher learning in Africa to improve graduate rates, solve the student-supervisor challenges and improve PhD quality of research.
Highlights
Undertaking an academic project is an uphill struggle for many scholars who invest their money and time at the expense of family and career
In many institutions of learning, scholars are expected to carry out research, write an in-depth and coherent thesis, undertake teaching and publish papers within the average three to four years for a doctoral study
Graph one below shows the number of respondents for the study categorized by academic level as PhD students, PhD holders and PhD holders as PhD student supervisors
Summary
Undertaking an academic project is an uphill struggle for many scholars who invest their money and time at the expense of family and career Most of those who brave the journey lose morale along the way and, either abandon the project, or drag on slowly to completion. In many institutions of learning, scholars are expected to carry out research, write an in-depth and coherent thesis, undertake teaching and publish papers within the average three to four years for a doctoral study. This is rarely achieved [2]. This paper analyses why the process takes longer than is timed and how this lengthy process can be managed mindful of the quality produced
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