The role of self-management in postgraduate studies at the University of Kwazulu-Natal.

Abstract

Self-management has historically been viewed as a crucial success factor in postgraduate studies. There is a combination of both a positive and negative state in respect of self-management as some students display the required self-management skills for academic success whilst others lack these fundamental elements. The problem lies in the fact that most students have experienced a lack of self-management during their tertiary studies and there is a need to develop or suggest a theoretical framework or solution to their management. In addition to affecting the throughput rates of postgraduate students, a lack of self-management also affects the self-confidence of students as they may feel a lack of motivation to achieve their goals. A mixed-methods study was conducted with postgraduate students at the University of KwaZulu-Natal to examine the various aspects that contribute towards self-management. Students were required to answer a survey via Survey Monkey to determine their self-management patterns. Twenty-three students completed the surveys and the findings confirm that whilst students are self-motivated and have a reasonable degree of self-confidence, there is still a huge reliance on the University and supervisors to provide additional support. Students believe that there will be a significant increase in the throughput rates were such support made available. Students are goal orientated and focused however, they still require assistance from their lecturers and the University as a whole. It can be deduced that the students have high expectations from both the lecturers and the University in terms of their studies. Therefore the University needs to introduce extensive support mechanisms for postgraduate students which may include a Master’s tutor as well as a dedicated librarian.