Improving Doctoral Programs in African Universities
Author Information
Author(s): Imelda Bates, Richard Phillips, Ruby Martin-Peprah, Gibson Kibiki, Oumar Gaye, Kamija Phiri, Harry Tagbor, Sue Purnell
Primary Institution: Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine
Hypothesis
How can African universities enhance their capacity to deliver effective doctoral programs?
Conclusion
The study developed a standardized evaluation process that helps African universities identify and address gaps in their doctoral programs.
Supporting Evidence
- The evaluation process was tested in five diverse African universities.
- Universities can generate relevant evidence for better policy-making.
- The study identified common gaps in doctoral programs across institutions.
- The evaluation process was derived from published evidence and best practices.
Takeaway
This study helps African universities figure out how to make their doctoral programs better so that students can learn more effectively.
Methodology
The study involved site visits, interviews with stakeholders, and document reviews across five African universities.
Potential Biases
Potential bias in interviews due to reliance on self-reported data from stakeholders.
Limitations
The evaluation process may not be applicable outside the context of African universities, and qualitative indicators are harder to measure.
Participant Demographics
Participants included university policy makers, researchers, and support staff from five African universities.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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