Challenges of Students under co-supervisors at the department of a university in Ghana

Abstract

Despite the numerous studies conducted on supervision, there is a lack of qualitative investigations focused on understanding the intricacies of the co-supervisory relationship experienced by M.Phil. students at the department of a university in Ghana. Therefore, this study aimed to critically examine the challenges faced by students under two supervisors and explore how these obstacles hinder the success of postgraduate research students. Employing a phenomenological research design, the study focuses on M.Phil. students and utilizes focus group discussions and semi-structured interviews as data collection tools. The sample consists of 27 participants, including 24 past M.Phil. students who completed their theses between 2011/2012 and 2016/2017 academic sessions, as well as three supervisors with at least five years of co-supervisory experience in the department. The findings revealed that students have a diminished desire for co-supervision due to a lack of proper mentorship and the controversies surrounding it. Communication breakdowns, power dynamics among supervisors, delayed feedback, conflicting advice, blurred lines of responsibility, low commitment levels from both supervisors and students, intellectual disagreements among supervisors (particularly regarding methodology in chapter three), and difficulties in data analysis and report writing in chapter four were among the major factors contributing to negative co-supervisory experiences reported by the participating students. To address these issues, students propose the implementation of innovative methods for coordinating co-supervision within the department. They also emphasise the importance of students’ commitment to their work and the development of effective strategies for managing any differences that may arise between them and their supervisors. In light of these findings, the study recommends that the School of Graduate Studies urgently establish measures to improve the co-supervisory experience for M.Phil. students.